Programmable surface

The devices and systems described herein generally relate to programmable surfaces. A set of tiles in conjunction with actuators, allow for the surface to be constantly changeable from a first shape to an unlimited variety of second shapes. Once a desired second shape is achieved, the shape can be held by actuating the actuators. The system can include detection and maintenance of the shapes of the programmable surface by controlling which of the actuators are released and when they are released.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter described herein generally relates to changeable surfaces and, more particularly, surfaces which can be deformed and programmed to maintain the achieved form.

BACKGROUND

Various supporting devices, such as cup holders, tables and the like, used in a car or a home, are beneficial for a number of elements of modern life. For example, drink holders, tables, change drawers, and the like are all supporting devices found in a modern vehicle or home. Supporting devices, which are used for holding and supporting other objects, add to the convenience of modern life by protecting the supported objects (e.g., sunglasses holders in a visor for sunglasses) and allowing access without carrying that object by other mechanisms. As well, various supporting devices allow people to multitask in the home or driving environment without compromising safety or attentiveness.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein is a programmable surface, capable of deforming and maintaining one or more shapes, and returning to an original shape. In one embodiment, an actuator is disclosed. The actuator can include a locking portion comprising a locking insulating elastomer. The locking portion can include an inner surface forming at least a portion of a fluid-impermeable compartment, the fluid-impermeable compartment including a dielectric fluid and a particulate material. The actuator can further include a first conducting portion connected to an outer surface of the locking portion, the conducting portion comprising a conducting elastomer. The actuator can further include a second conducting portion connected to an outer surface of the locking portion, the conducting portion comprising a conducting elastomer, the second conducting portion being separated from the first conducting portion by the fluid-impermeable compartment. The actuator can further include an insulating portion surrounding an exterior surface of the first conducting portion and the second conducting portion, the insulating portion comprising an insulating elastomer.

In another embodiment, a programmable surface is disclosed. The programmable surface can include a tile, a power source, and an actuator. The tile can include a base having an upper surface and a switch to alter an electric current in response to an input. The power source can be in electrical communication with the switch. The actuator can be attached to the tile and in electrical communication with the electric current. The actuator can include a locking portion comprising a locking insulating elastomer, the locking portion including an inner surface forming at least a portion of a fluid-impermeable compartment, the fluid-impermeable compartment including a dielectric fluid and a particulate material. The actuator can further include a first conducting portion connected to an outer surface of the locking portion, the conducting portion comprising a conducting elastomer. The actuator can further include a second conducting portion connected to an outer surface of the locking portion, the conducting portion comprising a conducting elastomer, the second conducting portion being separated from the first conducting portion by the fluid-impermeable compartment. The actuator can further include an insulating portion surrounding an exterior surface of the first conducting portion and the second conducting portion, the insulating portion comprising an insulating elastomer.

In another embodiment, a programmable surface system is disclosed. The programmable surface system can include a programmable surface. The programmable surface can include a plurality of tiles and a plurality of actuators. The programmable surface system can further include a surface control system for controlling the programmable surface. The surface control system can include one or more processors; and a memory communicably coupled to the one or more processors. The memory can store an activation determination module including instructions that when executed by the one or more processors cause the one or more processors to release one or more of the actuators in response to an activation signal received from the programmable surface, the release involving removing an electrical current from the actuators. The memory can further store a shape assignment module including instructions that when executed by the one or more processors cause the one or more processors to activate the actuators at a desired deformation level.

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, wherever possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. Additionally, elements of one embodiment may be advantageously adapted for utilization in other embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Supporting devices, such as tables and containers, all require a certain amount of space to perform their assigned task. For example, drink holders commonly are of a specific size and shape to hold a variety of cup sizes. This means that drink holders can take up an equivalent amount of space, regardless whether the drink holder is occupied by a cup or not. The same can be said for a variety of holders available throughout the vehicle, home, or office. Further, the supporting devices are not necessarily in use at any given time. In another example, though a vehicle may have space reserved for a change holder, the change holder may be empty or only partially full. This creates wasted space in an environment, with no clear benefit for the occupant.

Disclosed herein are programmable surfaces and methods of making and using the same. The programmable surface employs a plurality of actuators. The programmable surface can be variety of patterns, such as a tessellation pattern, of tiles connected by actuators. In one embodiment, the tiles are rigid. In further embodiments, the tiles are flexible or semi-flexible, such that the flexibility can be maintained once a final shape is achieved. In one example, the actuators can include a friction producing agent, such as a rough or grit material, to increase actuator rigidity and/or locking.

One or more of the tiles can include a sensor, such as a pressure sensor. The sensor can be located on a surface of the tile. The sensor can be exposed to the customer so that applying pressure to it triggers the switch. Triggered switches turn off the power to the adjacent actuator, making them elastic and pliable, so that the rigid tiles can be moved. Once the desired deformations to the surface are made, the power is returned to all actuators to freeze the new surface deformation pattern, such as for a user or customer defined cup holder, a moldable arm rest, a change drawer or other surfaces. The programmable surface is then ‘reset’ to a generic state by removing power from all actuators and allowing it to spring back into its original shape. It is then ready to be deformed again at will. The tile and actuator sizes can be as large or small as desired per the desired deformation shape resolution. The embodiments disclosed herein are more clearly described with reference to the figures below.

FIGS. 1A-1Care illustrations of an actuator100, according to one or more embodiments. The actuator100can be a hydrostatic actuator. As will be described herein, the actuator100can be configured for selective locking and unlocking. The actuator100can have a pliable or semi-pliable body. The actuator100can be an electrostatic device capable of reducing movement or “locking” with the application of electric charge. “Locking”, as used herein, relates to the ability of the actuator100to retain a specific shape, given an electric input. “Unlocking”, as used herein, refers to the ability of the actuator100to return from a locked state to an original shape, in response to stopping the electrical input. The actuator100can be capable of changing shape in the absence of the electric charge, thus allowing the shape of the actuator100to be manipulated by other forces, such as gravitational forces. Thus, the actuator100has a first shape which is maintained in the absence of a secondary force, such as gravity (e.g., the weight of an object) or kinetic force. Once a secondary force is applied, electric charge to the actuator100can be discontinued, allowing the shape of the actuator100to change to a second shape due to the secondary force. The actuator100can then receive an electric charge, causing the actuator100to lock in place in the second shape. When the charge is removed, the actuator100can then return to the first shape.

FIGS. 1A and 1Bdepicts the components of the actuator100, according to one or more embodiments. As shown here, the actuator100includes a fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110band a dielectric fluid114. The fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bcan be composed of layers, such as insulating portions102aand102b, conducting portions104aand104b, and locking portions106aand106b. “Portion”, as used herein, relates to one or more components which form a layer, a portion of a layer, or structure in the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bof the actuator100. The portions can have non-uniform coverage or thickness, as desired. The portions above are described as a single, uniform element or layer for simplicity purposes. However, the portions can include one or more of any of the layers, portions of layers, or variations as disclosed herein. As such, the portions may only partially extend the dimensions of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. As well, the portions of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bcan meet to form a seal, such that a chamber or compartment118is formed in the inner region of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b.

The fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b, or components thereof (e.g., the insulating portions102aand102b, the conducting portions104aand104b, and/or the locking portions106aand106b), can be flexible and/or elastic at one or more points and/or across one or more portions of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. In one embodiment, the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b, or components thereof, are completely flexible and elastic. In another embodiment, the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bis flexible across the entirety, but only elastic across one or more strips of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. In another embodiment, the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bis flexible and elastic at the insulating portion102aand102band the locking portions106aand106b, but neither flexible nor elastic at the conducting portions104aand104b. One skilled in the art will understand the variety of combinations of flexibility, elasticity, and positioning of the portions of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b, without further explicit recitation of specific examples herein.

The insulating portion102aand102bcan form an exterior surface108of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. In one embodiment, the insulating portion102aand102bcan form the entire exterior surface of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. The insulating portion102aand102bcan be flexible and/or elastic at one or more portions. In one embodiment, the insulating portion102aand102bis entirely flexible and elastic. In another embodiment, the insulating portion102aand102bcan have interspersed regions of flexibility, or flexibility and elasticity. The interspersed regions can be in a pattern or random, as desired. The insulating portion102aand102bcan form an interface with the surface of one or more inner layers, such as the locking portions106aand106band/or the conducting portions104aand104b.

The insulating portion102aand102bcan include a polymer, an elastomeric polymer (elastomer) or both. The use of a plurality of different encapsulating elastomers and/or polymers of varying degrees of softness and hardness can be employed. The polymers used in embodiments described herein can further include the addition of a plasticizer, such as phthalate esters. The polymers or elastomers may be natural or synthetic in nature. Examples of elastomers usable as part of the insulating portion102aand102bcan include an insulating elastomer, such as nitrile, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), fluorosilicone (FVMQ), vinylidene fluoride (VDF), hexafluoropropylene (HFP), tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), natural rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, silicone, silicone rubber, or combinations thereof. The insulating portion102aand102bcan be described with regards to electrical insulation. In further embodiments, the insulating portion102aand102bcan be internally porous, in that pores or voids are formed within the insulating portion102aand102bwithout affecting the permeability of the insulating portion102aand102b. Pores can be created through the use of a porogenic compound. The electrical insulation of the insulating portion102aand102bcan be described with relation to the dielectric constant, or κ value, of the material. In one embodiment, the insulating portion102aand102bcan have a κ value of less than 5, such as a κ value of less than 3. The term elastomer, as used herein, means a material which can be stretched by an external force at room temperature (˜20-25° C.) to at least twice its original length, and then upon immediate release of the external force, can return to its original length. Elastomers, as used herein, can include a thermoplastic, and may be cross-linked or thermoset.

The conducting portions104aand104bcan be a largely internal layer of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. The conducting portions104aand104bcan be conductive to electrical current, such that the conducting portion creates an electric field. In one embodiment, the conducting portions104aand104bis formed between the insulating portion102aand102band the locking portions106aand106b. In another embodiment, the conducting portions104aand104bcan include hydrogels. The conducting portions104aand104bcan further include a polymer, an elastomeric polymer (elastomer) or both. Examples of elastomers usable as part of the conducting portions104aand104bcan include nitrile, EPDM, fluorosilicone (FVMQ), vinylidene fluoride (VDF), hexafluoropropylene (HFP), tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), natural rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, silicone, or combinations thereof. The conducting portions104aand104bcan further include an electrically conductive dopant, such as silver, gold, platinum, copper, aluminum, or others. In further embodiments, the conducting portions104aand104bcan include inks and adhesives, for the purpose of flexibility and/or conductivity.

The locking portions106aand106bcan form an interior surface112of the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b. The locking portions106aand106bcan be composed of a material similar to that of the insulating portion102aand102b. In one or more embodiments, the locking portions106aand106bcan include an insulating elastomer, such as nitrile, EPDM, fluorosilicone (FVMQ), vinylidene fluoride (VDF), hexafluoropropylene (HFP), tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), natural rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, silicone, or combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the locking portions106aand106bcan include polymers and elastomers having a high electric breakdown voltage and not electrically conductive. The locking portions106aand106bcan further include a particulate material116. The particulate material116can be embedded in the locking portions106aand106b, as shown inFIG. 1A. In some arrangements, the particulate material116can be exposed on and/or form a part of the interior surface112. The particulate material116can be uniform or varying in size or composition. Further, the particulate materials116can be non-conductive. In one or more embodiments, the particulate material116is particulate glass, silicon dioxide or carbide. In one or more embodiments, the particulate material116can be sand or grit.

The fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bbe sealed at one or more edges, such that the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110bcan form a fluid-impermeable compartment118. The compartment can hold the dielectric fluid114. The dielectric fluid114can be a fluid that is resistant to electrical breakdown and/or provides insulation. In one or more embodiments, the dielectric fluid114can prevent arcing between one or more opposing layers (e.g., the opposing conducting portions104). The dielectric fluid114can be a lipid based fluid, such as a vegetable oil-based dielectric fluid. The dielectric fluid114can be ethylene glycol. The dielectric fluid114can have an associated dielectric constant, or κ value.

In one or more embodiments, any dissolved oxygen in the dielectric fluid can be minimized, such as through the addition of oxygen scavenging compounds. Oxygen may be used to polymerize some dielectric fluids, thus increasing viscosity and decreasing dielectric properties. Oxygen scavenging compounds which may be used in one or more embodiments include sodium sulfite, copper sulfate pentahydrate, hydrosulfite, calcium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, activated carbon, and combinations thereof. In further embodiments, the dielectric fluid114can include the particulate material116, as depicted inFIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the particulate material116can be embedded in the locking portions106aand106band included in the dielectric fluid114.

FIG. 1Cdepicts the actuator100as an operating unit, according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the fluid-impermeable membranes110aand110b, depicted inFIGS. 1A and 1B, are disposed against one another, the locking portion106aand106bforming the interior surface112of the compartment118and the dielectric fluid114disposed inside of the compartment118. Forces125and130are applied to the actuator100from a first connection135to a first rigid surface150and a second connection140a second rigid surface155, while the actuator100is in a relaxed state (i.e., no electrical current is being applied to the conducting portion104). The forces125and130can be applied by separation between a first connection135and a second connection140. The forces125and130can be applied by separation between the first connection135and the second connection140.

Once the actuator100reaches a desired length or stretched state, an electric current can be delivered to the conducting portions104aand104b. The conducting portions104aand104b, as disposed on either side of the compartment118can then emit an electric field, such that the conducting portions104aand104bare attracted toward each other. As a result, the interior surfaces112can come together. At this point, the interior surface112forces the particulate material116into the locking portions106aand106bof the interior surface112, which stops the continued stretching of the actuator100in the stretched state. The particulate material116on the opposing surfaces of the locking portions106aand106bcan engage each other to facilitate a locking effect.

FIGS. 2A and 2Bdepict various individual tiles, according to one or more embodiments. The tiles, such as those depicted here at tile200and tile230, can be interconnected as part of a network of tiles and actuators. As such, the tiles200and230can form a rigid portion of the programmable surface described herein. The tiles200and230can have a base201. The base201can made of any suitable material, such as plastic. In one or more arrangements, the base201can be a rigid material. In one or more arrangements, the base201can be a resilient, semi-rigid, or flexible material. In one or more embodiments, the base201can be a substantially planar structure. In some arrangements, the tiles200and230can include one or more tile edges, which define the shape of the tile200.

As shown inFIG. 2A, the tile200has four (4) tile edges202. The tile edges202of the tile200are depicted as substantially flat and bounding a substantially flat outer surface204. As used herein, the term “substantially” includes exactly the term it modifies and slight variations therefrom. Thus, the term “substantially flat” means exactly flat and slight variations therefrom. In this particular example, slight variations therefrom can include within normal manufacturing tolerances, within about 10 degrees/percent or less, within about 5 degrees/percent or less, within about 4 degrees/percent or less, within about 3 degrees/percent or less, within about 2 degrees/percent or less, or within about 1 degrees/percent or less.

A switch206can be provided on the base. For example, the switch206can be located on the outer surface204. In some embodiments, the switch206can be centrally located on the outer surface204. In some embodiments, the switch206can be offset from the center of the outer surface204. In some embodiments, there can be a plurality of switches provided on the outer surface204. The plurality of switches can be distributed on the outer surface204in any suitable manner.

The switch206can be a pressure or contact responsive element, which can control the flow of electric current to one or more elements. When the tiles200are connected in conjunction with the actuator100, the switch206can control the flow of electric current to the conducting portions104aand104b, described more fully with reference toFIG. 3. In one embodiment, the switch206can receive a force applied by the weight of an object placed on top of the tile200. The switch206can then activate or stop the flow of electric current, as desired for one or more actuation purposes.

InFIG. 2B, the tile230has six (6) tile edges232and forms a hexagonal shape. Respectively, the tile230shows substantially flat tile edges232on all tile edges bounding a substantially flat outer surface234. The tile236includes a plurality of switches, shown here as switches236aand236b. Located in the center of the outer surface234is a switch236a, while switch236bis located on a tile edge232. The switches236aand236bis a pressure or contact responsive element, which can control the flow of electric current to one or more elements. When the tile230is connected in conjunction with the actuator100, the switches236aand236bcan control the flow of electric current to the conducting portions104aand104b. Though depicted in this embodiment as two switches236aand236b, one or more switches can be used in the embodiments described herein, including combinations of switches. In one example, the switch236acomprises a touch sensitive switch and a pressure sensitive switch, while the switch236bcomprises a pressure sensitive switch. Further, though the switch236ais shown as being located in the center of the tile230and switch236bis shown located on the tile edge232, the switches236aand236bcan be located on any portion of the tile230.

FIG. 3depicts a programmable surface300, according to one or more embodiments.

The programmable surface300comprises a plurality of actuators302and a plurality of tiles312. The programmable surface300can include a network of actuators, such that the surface can be deformed by one or more forces to a second shape. Once the second shape is achieved, the programmable surface300can then receive and electric current and hold the second shape for a desired time frame. Once the desired time frame has passed, the electric current can be removed and the programmable surface300can return to the original shape. The programmable surface300can be deformed into a variety of shapes, based on the shape of an object, the direction of an applied force, the patterns of actuation and release, the formation and/or type of switches, or others as desired. The tiles312and the actuators302can be as large or as small as desired, per the desired deformation shape resolution. The tiles312can be substantially identical to each other, or one or more of the tiles312can be different from the other tiles312in one or more respects (e.g., size, shape, etc.). The actuators302can be substantially identical to each other, or one or more of the actuators302can be different from the other actuators in one or more respects.

Shown here are a plurality of tiles312. The tiles312can be substantially similar in structure and/or design to the tiles200and230, described above with reference toFIGS. 2A and 2B, or they can be different. The tiles312, as shown here, are a square shape having four (4) tile edges314. The tiles312can form a tessellation pattern, such that there is no overlap and no gaps. In further embodiments, the tiles312can form other arrangements where gaps are formed in the pattern. In such case, there can be a connecting material between the tiles, where one or more tiles overlap, or others. Further, though the tiles312are shown as having the same uniform shape, it is understood that a variety of shapes can be used, including tiles312having differing and/or non-uniform shapes within the same programmable surface300. In one embodiment, the tiles312are a series of octagonal shaped tiles with square shaped tiles positioned to fill in square shaped gaps between them. Other shapes or combinations of shapes, whether tessellating, overlapping, gapped, or combinations thereof, are contemplated without specific recitation herein.

The tiles312can include a plurality of switches318. The plurality of switches318are depicted, in this example, as being in the center of an exposed surface316in five (5) out of eight (8) of the tiles312. However, the positioning of the switches318is not intended to be so limited. The switches318can be positioned such that contact with a force or an object can be transmitted to perform a function of the programmable surface300. In one example, the switches318can be positioned such that typical objects which contact the tiles312of the programmable surface300will necessarily contact the switches318. In further embodiments, the switches318can require activation from a group of the plurality of switches318, before transmitting a signal. In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of switches318can overlap multiple of the plurality of tiles312, such that pressing a single switch requires contact with a plurality of the tiles312. In one example of this embodiment, the switch318can be positioned at a corner edge of four tiles, such that when the tiles312are drawn together, a single switch318is formed by the four quadrants on the four tiles312.

The tiles312can be connected with one or more actuators302. The actuators302can be substantially similar to the actuators100, described with reference toFIGS. 1A-1C. The actuators302can be connected to at least one of the tiles312, such that the actuators302can be stretched with pressure or other forces applied to the programmable surface300. The actuators302can have a stretch distance, as determined by the elasticity of the membrane materials, specific formation of the actuators302, the amount of force applied, directionality of the force and others. The actuators302can be operatively connected to an inner side of the tiles312. In one or more arrangements, an actuator302can be operatively connected to a plurality of the tiles312. For example, as is shown inFIG. 3, one or more of the actuators302can be operatively positioned between two neighboring tiles312.

The tiles312can provide an electrical signal which releases the actuators302when the switch318is depressed. The actuators302which are proximate or directly electrically connected to each of the tiles312, can be controlled by the respective switch318. In further embodiments, the switches may activate one another, such as in series or parallel. In another embodiment, the switches318can activate more distant actuators302. More complex schemes for controlling the tiles312, such as multiple switch318presses, varying levels of release based on the order or pressure of switches318activation, or others can be used. Once the switch318is no longer activated, or another signal is received, the actuators302can then be activated again, locking the actuators302at the current stretch position.

In another embodiment, the actuators302can include a feedback mechanism to inform a system of how much the actuators302have stretched. The actuators302may act as elastic capacitors with a specific capacitance which relates to the relative permittivity of the material. The specific capacitance of the material can be calculated as a function of the thickness and area of the material. When the structure of the actuators302is deformed by an external force or by an applied actuation voltage, the electrode area and/or dielectric thickness change, which results in a change in capacitance. The electrical behavior of the actuators302can be modeled as an RC circuit. Thus, the transient capacitance of the actuators302can be determined and applied as feedback indicating the level of stretch at the actuators302.

With consideration of the capacitive features of the actuators302, the actuators302and/or the tiles312can include one or more sensors320. The sensors320can be capable of detecting the change in capacitance at one or more of the actuators302. This change in capacitance can be provided to a computing device for use as part of a system, such as a computing device500and a surface control system570, described with reference toFIG. 5. As such, the programmable surface300can be changed from a first shape to a second shape and locked into position in a second shape. Once the second shape is no longer desired, the second shape can be released and the programmable surface300can change shape back to the first shape due to the elasticity of the actuators302.

FIGS. 4A and 4Bdepict a programmable surface device400in use in an environment, according to one or more embodiments. The programmable surface device400can include a frame402and a programmable surface404. The programmable surface404can be substantially similar to the programmable surface300, described with reference toFIG. 3. The frame402can be positioned around the programmable surface404, such as in connection with one or more edges405. As such, the frame402can provide a mechanism of resistance for the force of an object applied to the programmable surface404. The programmable surface404of the programmable surface device400can deform to match the shape, size and weight of the objects placed on the programmable surface404. As such, the programmable surface can act as a universal holding device in a variety of environments, such as a home or vehicle.

FIG. 4Ashows the programmable surface device400with the programmable surface404in a first state410. The first state410can correspond to a substantially flat surface. In the first state410, the programmable surface404can have minimum stretch, such as seen when no objects are supported by the surface. In some instances, the programmable surface404may be in an unlocked condition when in the first state. Alternatively, the programmable surface404can be in a locked state, such as when the actuators, such as actuators302, are receiving an electric current and thus incapable of flexing and stretching. The frame402can be providing an external force to support the programmable surface404. In further embodiments, the frame402can include or be in connection with a computing device, for transmission of one or more instructions.

FIG. 4Bdepicts the programmable surface device400after receiving one or more objects420. The objects420as shown here include coins and a cup. However, this is not intending to be limiting, as any object which can benefit from being held can be supported by the programmable surface404, as described herein. The objects420can rest on the programmable surface404of the programmable surface device400. The weight of the objects420can activate the programmable surface404, causing the programmable surface to release such that it is in an unlocked condition, which allows it to stretch at one or more portions, as described above with reference toFIGS. 1-3. In one or more embodiments, the release of the programmable surface404can be achieved through a series of switches, described above with reference toFIG. 3.

Once capable of stretching, the programmable surface404can deform to match the size and shape of the objects420. In this embodiment, the force of gravity pulling on the objects420, away from the frame402, forces the deformation of the programmable surface404. Once the objects420have reached a desired stretch interval (e.g., a second shape) in the programmable surface404, the programmable surface device400can then lock the programmable surface404in place, such as in response to a user input. The programmable surface404can then hold the second shape regardless of whether the objects420are maintained in place or not. The deformation to the second shape can be held by actuation of one or more actuators, described above with reference toFIGS. 1-3. As such, the user can manipulate one or more of the objects420and the programmable surface404will maintain the shape needed to receive the object420again, without further interaction.

Once the user decided to release the second shape, or a predetermined event has occurred, the second shape can be released by the programmable surface device400. The signal for release can be transmitted to the programmable surface device400by a number of mechanisms, such as a specific time frame, manual release, release based on the parameters of a system, or others. Once released, the programmable surface404will retract based on elasticity of the membrane to the original shape. Once in the original shape, the programmable surface can lock again, against the frame402, such that the programmable surface device400can be later activated and the process can begin again. In one or more embodiments, the programmable surface device400can have a customer assigned surface topology (CAST), such that one or more desirable shapes of the programmable surface404can be achieved and maintained based on user preferences.

FIG. 5is a block diagram of the computing device500usable with the programmable surface described above, according to one or more embodiments. The computing device500can be any appropriate type of computing device such as, but not limited to, a server, a personal computer (PC), workstation, embedded computer, or stand-alone device with a computational unit, such as a microprocessor, DSP (digital signal processor), FPGA (field programmable gate array), or ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), or others. The computing device500can contain various components for performing the functions that are assigned to the computing device. The components can include a processor504, like a central processing unit (CPU), a memory506, a power source508, communications device510, input and/or output devices, and at least one bus516that connects the aforementioned components. In some embodiments, one or more of these components are at least partially housed within a housing518.

The processor504, which can also be referred to as a CPU, can be a device which is capable of receiving and executing one or more instructions to perform a task as part of a computing device. In one embodiment, the processor504can include a microprocessor such as an application specific instruction set processor (ASIP), graphics processing unit (GPU), a physics processing unit (PPU), a DSP, an image processor, a co-processor, or others. Though referenced as the processor504, it is understood that one or more processors504can be used in one or more embodiments described herein, including combinations of processors504.

The memory506is any piece of hardware that is capable of storing data or information. Examples of data or information which can be stored in the memory506include, without limitation, data, program code in functional form, and/or other suitable information either on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. The memory506can include one or more modules that include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor504, cause the processor504to perform methods and functions that are discussed herein. The memory506can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory. The memory506can further include a computer-readable storage medium. Examples of suitable memory506include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, magnetic disks, optical disks, hard drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof.

The memory506can be a component of the processor(s)504, or the memory506can be operably connected to the processor(s)504for use thereby. The memory506can include an operating system520, such as LINUX. The operating system520can include batch, live, time sharing, real time, and other types of operating systems. The operating system520, as described herein, can include instructions for processing, accessing, writing, storing, searching data, or other functions as selected by the user for controlling and providing interface with the computing device500. The memory506can include communications procedures for communicating with the network590, the programmable surface300, and/or another computing device.

The communication device510can be wired or wireless connection components and/or software allowing the computing device500to communicate with other computing devices. The communication device510can allow communication with devices either locally or remotely, such as over a network protocol (e.g., Ethernet or similar protocols). In one example, the computing device500is connected to the network590using the communication device510. The communication device510can further be connected with remote devices associated with other computing devices. In further embodiments, the computing device500can connect with one or more computing devices, allowing access to one or more sensors, which are connected to or in connection with the second computing device.

The computing device500can further include a surface control system570or components thereof. As described herein, certain components of the surface control system570can be stored in the programmable surface300, in the computing device500or in combinations thereof. As such, one or more embodiments of the surface control system570can include the surface control system570, modules thereof, or components thereof as being stored, collected, created, compared or otherwise made available from the memory506or the database522of the computing device500. When stored as part of the computing device500, the surface control system570can access the programmable surface300, another computing device500, or other devices through the communications device510and the network590, allowing for continuity between the one or more components which comprise the surface control system570.

The discussion of the surface control system570begins atFIG. 6, with an illustration of the surface control system570, according to one embodiment. The surface control system570is shown as including the processor504from the computing device500, depicted inFIG. 5. Accordingly, the processor504can be a part of the surface control system570, the surface control system570can include a separate processor from the processor504or the surface control system570can access the processor504through a data bus or another communication path. In one embodiment, the surface control system570includes the memory614that can store an activation determination module620, a deformation module630, and/or a shape assignment module640. The memory614can be a RAM, ROM, a hard disk drive, a flash memory, or other suitable memory for storing the modules620,630, and640. The modules620,630, and640are, for example, computer-readable instructions that when executed by the processor504, cause the processor504to perform the various functions disclosed herein.

The surface control system570can further include a database610. The database610can be presented in a number of configurations, including as part of the memory614, as an independent component from the memory614, as part of a separate memory (distinct from memory614), or others. The database610can include deformation data660and user information670. The deformation data660can include data sets as detected or determined about each of the actuators regarding maximum deformation, current deformation, useful life and other details which can be used to control the programmable surface during use. The user information670can include information related to selections for and uses of the programmable surface by a user. The surface control system570or portions thereof, can be stored as part of the computing device500, as part of a server, or others. As such, one or more of the functions of the surface control system570or of the modules contained therein, can be performed remotely and transferred to programmable surface as part of the embodiments described herein.

The activation determination module620can generally include instructions that function to control the processor504to receive an activation signal from the programmable surface. The activation signal is a signal that a user or an object either intends to or is in the process of interacting with the programmable surface. The programmable surface, as used herein, can be substantially similar to the programmable surface described with reference toFIGS. 3-4B. The activation signal can be delivered to the activation determination module620based on the modulation of a switch, such as the switch described with reference toFIG. 3-4Babove. The activation signal can be received directly by the activation determination module620or through a network, such as the network590. The activation signal can further include individualized input or group input regarding one or more switches that are in connection with the programmable surface. In another embodiment, the activation signal is a signal delivered by the user indicating the desire to program the programmable surface, according to embodiments described herein. The individualized input can be stored as part of the user information670in the database610.

The activation determination module620can further include instructions to release (e.g., unlock) one or more of the actuators of the programmable surface. The actuators can be substantially similar to the actuators, described with reference toFIGS. 1A-1C and 3. The actuators can be maintained in a locked state or an unlocked state, according to one or more embodiments described herein. When maintained in the locked state, the actuators can be released by reducing or removing the electric current at one or more of the actuators. The locking portion will then separate due to the removal of charge and the actuators will then become pliable. Once the membrane is pliable, the programmable surface is then responsive to one or more external forces which can cause deformation of the programmable surface.

The deformation module630can generally include instructions that function to control the processor504to detect a deformation level one or more of the actuators. The programmable surface can deform by one or more forces changing the shape of the actuators. Deformation, as used herein, refers to the changing of shape of the programmable surface as a whole or the stretching of one or more of the actuators. As described above, the programmable surface can change shape due to gravitational forces from one or more objects or other applied forces against the programmable surface. Further, the programmable surface can change shape at specific locations, such as when a selection of the actuators has been released. The deformation module630can detect the deformation of the programmable surface by a number of mechanisms, such as external sensors, detection of capacitance of the membrane, or others. The deformation module630can further detect differences in deformation between the actuators, such that each of the actuators are analyzed individuals. In further embodiments, the deformation of the programmable surface can be analyzed in groups or as a whole, based on the desires of the user. The deformation levels can then be stored by the deformation module630in the deformation data660of the database610. In further embodiments, the levels of deformation can then be forwarded to the shape assignment module640for further application in the system570.

The shape assignment module640can generally include instructions that function to control the processor504to activate the actuators at a desired deformation level. Once the programmable surface has reached a desired state or a state limited by one or more secondary factors (e.g., maximum stretch capacity), the shape assignment module640can activate one or more of the actuators to assign the shape to the programmable surface. Once the actuators are activated again, the elasticity of the actuators will again be limited. In this way, the programmable surface can hold a specific shape as desired or based on one or more parameters set by the surface control system570.

Thus the surface control system570and the programmable surface can regulate the movement of the programmable surface. The programmable surface can change from a first shape to a second shape, and each shape can be held by the actuators, such that the shape no longer requires external forces to be maintained. The programmable surface can provide numerous benefits. The programmable surface can assist in space conservation, by performing multiple standard tasks for storage or holding, on demand. Further, the programmable surface can replace numerous devices which have become standard in vehicles and in households, allowing for a variety of applications. The surface control system570can add a level of modulation to the programmable surface, allowing the programmable surface to be intelligently controlled.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible embodiments of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which can include one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative embodiments, the functions noted in the block can occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods, other and further embodiments of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods can be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.