SCIFT

About

Shape-changing (physical) interface for a semi-autonomous car

SCIFT is a shape-changing interface and gesture recognition system for semi-autonomous cars. The project is inspired by criticisms of digital interfaces that claim the dashboard touchscreen is just as distracting as playing with a smartphone or tablet while driving. SCIFT proposes an interface console that requires significantly reduced visual interaction. Instead of a GUI (Graphical User Interface), users can access the car’s functions by simple hand gestures. When detected, these gestures shift the shape of the console, enabling a task-specific interface. The shifted console allows gestural control of functions such as speed, changing lanes, temperature and air conditioning. With the tactile response of a button, and the flexibility of a digital interface, SCIFT provides a safe and innovative response to the semi-autonomous vehicle.