Multi-Touch Table with Object Recognition

For urban scale applications, a large-scale multi-touch table (75 inches) was developed. For the "capture" of physical working models, a combination with a 3D sensor (Kinect) was realized.

A special feature of the multi-touch-table is that it is able to capture 3D objects automatically. This facilitates the simultaneous use of traditional working methods and digital analyses. The working model is automatically scanned in in three dimensions, incorporated into the 3D city model and displayed on a connected monitor. With this newly created digital model, different analyses and simulations can be calculated and the results displayed. The positions of the sun with corresponding shadows, are represented and another tool simulates wind flows, the viewing angles are calculated and displayed. If the shape of the working model or its position is changed, then these changes are immediately updated and reflected in the simulated scene.

The multi-touch table is further linked to the Cave in Garching. The table simulated scenarios are displayed in a 5 sided projection. Here the scene may be viewed in a "life-sized" building landscape. By combining various disciplines, participation and collaboration tools, the cooperation of architects, owners and citizens can be greatly simplified.