DeformIO: Flexible morphing touchscreen transforms interaction

DeformIO, developed by the University of Bath, UK: a milestone for the future of touchscreens

Computer scientists at the University of Bath in the UK have recently developed a touchscreen for digital devices called DeformIO, which has the unique ability to deform with the press of a finger and become softer or harder depending on the amount of force applied by the user. Although the touchscreen is still in the conceptual prototype stage, the breakthrough technology signals that the next 10 to 20 years could have far-reaching impacts in areas such as business, communications, healthcare and gaming, changing the way people interact with the world.

DeformIO: Flexible Silicone Touchscreen

DeformIO is made of silicone and utilizes pneumatic and resistive sensing technology to detect pressure. Users can tap the screen and then move their fingers smoothly and continuously across the surface. Another feature of the device is that it allows the user to apply pressure to multiple areas of the screen at the same time and can differentiate between pressure levels to create a softness that is compatible with the applied force.

DeformIO for a wide range of applications

DeformIO has a wide range of applications. In video games, the display may deform when a player presses an action button on the screen to simulate physical resistance; in medical training, medical students can touch the screen to detect lesions that are invisible to the naked eye. And in everyday life, DeformIO may also change the way users interact with their devices. For example, when shopping online, a user can “touch” the fabric of a new sofa or “feel” the softness of a pillow by simply pressing the DeformIO mobile display.

DeformIO: A New Role for Digital Maps

The researchers described how DeformIO can be used on digital maps. When a user enters a city map, he or she simply presses a marker for a specific store, and DeformIO's hardness and softness tells them whether the store is open or not, providing a more intuitive and interactive mapping experience for the user.

With DeformIO, we see the great potential of the future of touchscreens, which will bring more possibilities and convenience to people's daily lives and work.