Researchers from Osaka University, Japan recently introduced the new Flex Touchscreen, an innovative method of scrolling through Google Maps. One can say that this technology can give users a whole new perspective on map viewing, among many other applications. 
This tech-savvy idea was first launched in Interaction 2011. The team from Osaka University demonstrated the Flex Touchscreen on Google Maps. With the Flex Touchscreen, the map appears to be made of an elastic fabric, which follows the movement of the finger. As you scroll in any direction, a portion of the display is distorted or pinched into a corner. This keeps the other map portions in view while the user scrolls around. When the finger is lifted off the screen, the distorted corner returns to normal view, much like when a stretched rubber band is released.
According to the researchers, this touchscreen mode is ideal whenever one searches through large areas in a map. When you scroll and drag and you don’t find what you’re looking for in one area, simply lift your finger and the map view goes back to where you started. The team explains that this can be implemented on the iPhone and iPod Touch, as well as other similar devices.
The Flex Touchscreen can be a smart application whenever you find a landmark on Google Maps and want to check out the nearby roads and places. You can immediately go back to your point of origin without getting disoriented. Imagine how helpful this can be for tourists looking for train stations, museums, hotels, and more.
For more interesting breakthroughs in the world of touchscreens, you can look at this Light Touch Projector, which turns any smooth surface into a touchscreen. How about a desk that serves as a huge touchscreen? That’s made possible with the prototype BendDesk.
Via: DigInfo TV
