Getting a reaction

A reactive technology enables new functions and possibilities with normal interfaces.

Tangible Textural Interfaces (TTI), a project created by materials and industrial designer, Eunhee Jo, sought to redefine the role of the surface in future lifestyles, exploring how surfaces can be an integrated as part of a product or environment.

TTI, a new sound system, embeds a tactile surface that enables people to touch and feel the response through the controls and physical morph of the surface. It delivers new aesthetics through integrated flexible surfaces, as opposed to conventional materials for interfaces such as plastic or glass. Also, unlike existing 2-D interfaces, TTI has a curved 3-D surface, which opens up new possibilities in making flexible forms and shapes within the interface.

TTI consists of three main functions: backwards and forwards, volume control and equalizer, with a physical feedback and control interface within one surface. As you control the functions, the left surface physically responds to the controls, and the tactile surface also responds to the beat of the music.

Interactive surfaces could make everyday objects multi-functional and more fun, but how might this technology be applied in other ways? “There could be many applications; the speaker is just one example of a responsive surface,” Eunhee Jo says.

The artist is currently working on another project related to TTI, but the technology is confidential at this time. Visit www.eunheejo.com for more information