MagneShape: A Simple Pin-based Shape-changing Display Using Magnetic Materials.

Pin-based shape-changing displays provide dynamic shape changes by actuating numerous pins. However, the large number of actuators required to move so many pins complicates the electrical path and mechanical structure, and creates a need for significant resources if one is to build such a display. Therefore, my research colleague and I proposed a simple pin-based shape-changing display, called MagneShape, that outputs shapes and motions without any electronic components. MagneShape consists of magnetic pins, a pin housing, and magnetic sheet. The magnetic force generated between the magnetic sheet and the magnetic pins levitates the pins vertically. We devised two methods for fabricating alternative magnetic pins, devised a method for controlling the magnetic pins, and developed design tools for MagneShape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]