What is an interface?

The interface is the way the machine (e.g. a computer) interacts with us, human beings.

Although we work with computers for such a long time, the interface is more or less the same as 15 years ago. We use the computermouse and a 2D representation of our desktop.

Let's take a loot at some different approaches.

Different interfaces

There is a great seminar each year: TED. In the video's below you will see different video's from presentations with some new interfaces.

If you want, just watch them (or partly) to get an impression of some different interfaces.

Microsoft is catching some attention by their new interface: Microsoft Surface. You can check their website for a small demo. The ideas are similar to the ones shown in the video below:

Different input devices

Not only a touch screen, a keyboard, a joy stick, a tablet or a mouse can be used as input devices to interact with a computer. You can also use other tools.

One recent example is the Wii game console. They are using a special device that administrating your movements (on different axes). This way the movement can be used to influence the computer.

Other example is the dance mat. A dance mat plugs into your games console, they’re also made for your PC, to replace the hand held controller. You then use your feet to play dance mat games.

Surgery with your own hands

The Wii has a game called Trauma Center.

Players will take the role of Dr. Stiles, a hot-shot rookie surgeon that quickly climbs the ranks to achieve near super hero status in the operating room.

Using the Wii-mote and nunchuck combination, players will manipulate more than a dozen different items, ranging from a scalpel, defibrillator, syringe, antibiotic gel, and good ole' thread and needle to seek out and attack nearly any surgical nightmare out there.

To keep the game from feeling stale, many of the moves are done with the Wii-mote's more intricate control, having players actually use the A and B buttons to pinch with the tweezers, or rub the controllers together and shock a patient back to life with a jot from the "defib paddles".

Mind you: this is a commercial game, not even an educational game! Imagine....

Brain-device connection 

Another way of interaction with a computer is directly with your brain! Why should you use your hands? Neural activity generates electrical potentials that are picked up by the electrodes that are on the head of the user.

It can be used in different ways:

• to train your brain (and use the computer as an aid for therapy);
• to use your brain to interact with applications on the computer.

Train your brain
Neurofeedback is a therapy technique that presents the user with realtime feedback on brainwave activity, as measured by electrodes on the scalp, typically in the form of a video display, sound or vibration. The aim is to enable conscious control of brainwave activity.

Interact with computers
You can also use your brain to move cursors with computer applications. Think about a movement and it will happen on the screen. This is especially important for disabled people who cannot use their hands or mouth to use input devices.