Communiclay: a modular system for tangible telekinetic communication

Abstract

We introduce Communiclay, a modular construction system for tangible kinetic communication of gesture and form over a distance. Users assemble a number of Communiclay nodes into unique configurations, connect their creations to each others' Communiclay creations on a network, and then physically deform one creation to synchronously output those same gestures on the other networked creations. Communiclay builds on trends in tangible interfaces and explores the ways in which future actuated materials can enable a variety of tangible interfaces. We present applications that stem from past research in tangible media, and describe explorations that address ways in which people make meaning of remote communication through gesture and dynamic physical form. Our hypothesis is that current research in programmable matter will eventually converge with UI research; Communiclay demonstrates that we can begin to explore design and social issues with today's technologies.