Not long ago I had the opportunity to chat with Stuart McLean, the founder of
Osmosis, a company that delivers customized multi-touch systems of hardware and software that support human-centered natural user interaction. Stuart has many years of experience working in more traditional IT/business roles, and knows from this experience that there is better way to support
human computer interaction, including interaction between people.
Like many of us in the "NUI" community, Stuart was impressed by the video of Jeff Han's
2006 TED Talk, which demonstrated a variety of awesome multi-touch, multi-user applications on a high-resolution drafting table. Stuart saw the importance of natural user interfaces and interaction and became involved with the
NUI Group, a "
global research community focused on the open discovery of natural user interfaces". Unlike traditional tech companies, Osmosis is a collaboration between a global network of engineers, designers, and developers who share the "NUI" vision. This collaboration enables the company to provide solutions for clients across a range of countries, cultures, and domains.
Below is a photo-gallery of some of the applications and systems developed by Osmosis:
Multi-touch by Osmosis |
| GALLERY |
As you can see from the gallery photos, Osmosis provides a range of possibilities for their clients and potential clients. All of the displays are high-definition. Some are projection-systems, and others are displays with multi-touch sensing technology. Since the construction is modular, a variety of form factors are available. High-quality surround and domed sound systems are available. Applications include information kiosks, point of sale/digital signage, hospitality, presentation and training, education, and audio-visual performance and production. Osmosis also provides applications that support interaction with tangible objects.
Below are two videos that give a taste of what Osmosis is all about:
OSMOSIS DEMO REELDemo Reel from Osmosis on Vimeo.MULTI-TOUCH EVERYWHEREMT Everywhere from Osmosis on Vimeo.I can see where some of these applications would be great in K-12 educational settings. Just look at the joy on the faces of the kids in the Multi-Touch Everywhere video!
(Short video clips of the Osmosis applications in action can be found in the
showcase page of the company's website.)
