Interactive Surface Composition Based on Arduino in Multi-Display Environments

Multi-display environments (MDEs) are becoming increasingly common. They combine numerous displays in a variety of physical arrangements to support a wide range of tasks and interactions. In this context, we are investigating how to support the dynamic reconfiguration of devices by users. For instance how users can seamlessly add new displays in the environment and how the overall interaction space can be adapted accordingly. We present an architecture based on a Web server and websockets that enables rapid pairing of devices (local or remote), and simple magnetic switches to provide location awareness of devices relative to each others. We apply this concept to a simple game, whose world can be extended by holding devices next to each other.