Cristal, a Surface-like table prototype

[CEATEC 09] CRISTAL, which means Control of Remotely Interface Systems using Touch-based Action in Living spaces, is a touch user interface concept based on a live video feed. It works by using a webcam placed in the ceiling that continuously captures a view (from above) of the room. Users can define zones that will be controlled, like lamps or a TV in this demo. Lamps are simple objects that can be turned on and off by swiping your hand on them, but the TV allows more complex interaction like drag and drop music, photos or movie files. The demo was not as slick as what Microsoft does with Surface, but it was interesting to watch. The setup is probably way too complicated for consumers (a webcam needs to be installed up there) or even businesses at this point, but we’ll keep an eye on it.