Multitouch

Digital Sketchpads

Posted on: September 5th, 2011 by Mason Brown + Comment

 

There are several new tools to make the experience sketching and note-taking on digital devices more rewarding. Almost every pen gadget boasts an army of features but I haven't yet found one that compares to the simplicity and comfort of a traditional pencil and paper approach. I think we're moving in the right direction with some of the latest software that allows cloud-syncing and remote collaboration but the hardware is far too cumbersome for most of my illustration and brainstorming sessions. I already have enough gadget accessories to lug around when I travel and it's rare that any of them are as agile and portable as my notepad. I imagine someone will eventually discover a holy-grail drawing technology that not only fits in my back pocket but also doesn't rely on electricity. I'm sure mankind will look back decades from now and realize most of our writing and drawing gadgets were clumsy toy prototypes that led to more ambient solutions. It's amazing how far mankind has evolved drawing and word processing tools in the past centuries, yet the fundamental mechanics of sketching graphite on an analog slab hasn't changed that much since our neanderthal cave painting days.

Here's a round-up of some writing and sketching tools that are nice, but won't replace my analog sketchpad anytime soon:

Wacom Inkling:

Inkling

Wacom Bamboo Paper & Stylus for iPad:

Bamboo

Adonit Jot:

Jot

PhatPad for iPad:

PhatPad

Livescribe + Pencasts:

Livescribe Pen

DJ Touch Screen Interface

Posted on: August 12th, 2010 by Mason Brown + Comment

 

It's rare that a multitouch app truly excites me beyond mere novelty. GREG WERK has concepted and designed the next generation DJ interface using a multitouch light table. The light table DJ setup is controlled by sophisticated hand gestures to produce a simplified DJ experience. Aside from the well designed interface, I also admire the idea of standardizing club DJ systems to use multitouch gear instead of clumsy setups riddled with cables and heavy equipment. No more hauling turntable coffins, crates of records, cases of cds, laptops or mixers. All you need to jockey a light table is a jump drive. I can also envision integrating online music libraries to eliminate the need for DJ's to carry any gear at all. Just prep your set list at your home studio (or anywhere) and show up to a gig with nothing more than your birthday suit. Watch this video for a more detailed explanation of the concept and interface.

Also, be sure to check out the concept sketches to see a little of the process behind the interface and interaction design. view process ยป
DJ touch screen interface and gesture interaction concepts