A Short History of Tabletop Research, Technologies, and Products

Book chapter, 2010

This chapter presents a brief history of scientific research into interactive tabletops, associated emerging technologies, and commercial products. It summarizes and visualizes a body of scientific work, identifies major advances during the past 15 years, and thereby draws a picture of the research landscape to date. Key innovations during this period are identified and their research impact is discussed. We synthesize historical information into a synoptic landscape including research highlights, enabling technologies, prototypes, and products. On top of this landscape, we point out and trace innovations as they stimulated and triggered key transitions in research and technology. These innovations have also played a major role in leveraging ideas from a conceptual level to widespread adoption and use. Finally, the chapter examines possible future trends of tabletop research, technologies, and applications.