OS X-based multitouch project makes debut at science fair

As we've seen, it doesn't exactly take all that much to whip up a homemade multitouch system, but that doesn't make Bridger Maxwell's science fair project here any less impressive, which wraps everything into a fairly tidy, OS X-based package. Like other similar systems, this one relies on a slew of LEDs (28 of 'em in this case), along with a webcam modded with an IR filter, and piece of acrylic and a spare LCD screen for the surface itself. To show it off to its fullest potential, Bridger whipped up an app of his own for OS X that lets users flip through XKCD comics with suitably fancy graphics thanks to OS X's Core Animation. There doesn't seem to be any video of the rig in action, unfortunately, but you can find plenty of pics of the entire build process at the link below.

[Via TG Daily]

[clak @ May 8th 2008 1:01PM]

Great, I hope they do away with those five projectors that Microsoft uses in their Surface product.


Now, Darkness, the tables are turned—Rick James, Chappelle's Show, 2004

[letstakeawalk @ May 8th 2008 1:26PM]

Still haven't learned the difference between projectors and cameras?

[phenom @ May 8th 2008 1:45PM]

instead of a big ass table we have a big ass box!

[Decoy @ May 8th 2008 4:01PM]

Made from a bin?

[Kerrick @ May 8th 2008 1:34PM]

So, think that when Apple makes a tablet, they'll go iPhone-esque multi-touch, or Axiotron-ish Wacom based?

[Patriks7 @ May 8th 2008 1:50PM]

multi-touch definitely
and if they wont, i dont think many people will look at it as much
i mean the iphone multi-touch is one of the best ive used so far

[eric cumbee @ May 8th 2008 2:33PM]

i would think that they would use both, while multi touch is superior for using fingers, a Wacom pen based system would be alot better for writing with a pen. i think a couple of the thinkpad tablet pc's have both a touch screen and a wacom electronic pen.

[Steffen Jobbs @ May 8th 2008 1:49PM]

If think if Apple makes a tablet they should go with whatever touch system is the hardest to copy or the most patent-protected on their part. I'd have to say go iPhone-esque. I wonder if the tablet is going to be using haptic-feedback as all the rumors indicate where Apple might be headed for touch displays.

[genexk @ May 8th 2008 2:10PM]

osx based trashcan?...sorry i didn't read

[Steven1350 @ May 8th 2008 2:51PM]

I am the only one why thinks this resembles a trashbin? The picture makes it look like it has the right dimentions, and it has an opening is the right place.

[YoMomma @ May 8th 2008 3:40PM]

There is your iTrash to dump your useless iMacs, Macbooks and other worthless crap Apple does.....

[Derek @ May 8th 2008 5:14PM]

Why is it worthless? Even if you don't like Mac OS X, you can install Vista or XP and run it just fine....

[SoreThumb @ May 8th 2008 5:28PM]

Innovation at such an early age?
What can I say? This kid's touched my heart.

[SoreThumb @ May 8th 2008 5:28PM]

Innovation at such an early age?
What can I say? This kid's touched my heart.