The Potential Usages of Interactive Tabletops and Surfaces in Product Design

This is a “concept” paper. It explores the potential usages of interactive tabletops and surfaces in product design. Interactive tabletops and surfaces are a family of display technologies coupled with sensors that enable a more natural approach for interacting with computers. Previous research demonstrates the many possible uses for interactive tabletops and surfaces in design domain through several applications. This paper explores the potential of this technology to enhance the performance of designers and design groups. This paper highlights the benefits of interactive tabletops and surfaces in design through discussion of different potential applications and their possible advantages. The methodological approach for developing interactive tabletops and surfaces application for design has been presented and supported through a case study. Through the proposed approach we aim to gain a better understanding of practical challenges that need to be considered when integrating interactive tabletops and surfaces technology into a design office.