The Next Generation of Touch Screen Technology

Sales of tablets are expected to reach £41.4 billion pounds worldwide by the end of 2012 according to researcher DisplaySearch.

With this increase, developers have been working on innovative ways to better increase the touch screen experience. Professor Hong Tan, currently working at Microsoft Research in Asia, has been involved in the development of a haptic feedback which creates a physical sensation when using a touch screen panel. 

Through the use of vibrating actuators installed on the sides of the screen, friction can be generated at the point of contact, allowing the screen to effectively feel like it has actual buttons.  This can prove to be beneficial to certain markets. It would allow people with limited visual acuity to use touch screen devices such as ticketing machines and information terminals much more effectively for example.

Security is another field in which touch screen is being developed. Chris Harrison of Disney Research in Pittsburgh is currently involved in developing a method for recognising individuals who use touch screens.

Through a unique interface and sensor array, a device can theoretically recognise the swipes and gestures of particular people. A possible use for this would be allowing you to see who modified a document or allowing only a certain person to access it. 

Harrison said: "It's similar to the technology that is already in smartphones. There are lots of implications for gaming—no more split screens—and for collaborative applications."

ENDS