HandLog: a deformable tangible device for continuous input through finger flexion

We introduce HandLog, a novel handheld interaction device that supports single handed deformation through finger flexion as a continuous digital input. It consists of a 3D printed core inserted within a foam sleeve embedded with conductive foam columns. By measuring resistance changes across the columns during deformation, whole hand or individual finger flexion motions can be mapped to digital data in real-time. We conducted a user study that demonstrated the successful use of the device for game input. The results indicated that users could quickly become competent with the device and that when compared with discrete controls its supported interactions created a more engaging experience. HandLog has great potential for other application domains, including hand exercise for rehabilitation and handheld controllers for smart homes in ubiquitous computing.