Source: Digital Signage Expo 2008
Award Submission 
2008 Award Winner
Company: GestureTek, Inc.
(www.gesturetek.com)
Client: Red Rock Leisure


Overview
The Eureka Tower, one of Australia’s tallest buildings, unveiled the world’s largest multi-touch surface computing table in May 2007 (called the Serendipity Table), using GestureTek technology. GestureTek customized an 18’ x 5’ illuminate interactive table with cutting-edge 3D-graphics, gesture-recognition software and multi-touch functionality, allowing several users to access information simultaneously.

Objectives
Eureka wanted an interactive lobby installation to inform and entertain groups of tourists simultaneously, while connecting the tower to historical, mythological, cultural and contemporary Melbourne. They wanted the latest multi-media and gesture-recognition technologies and flexible, customizable content so the table could be used for special events or promotions.

Description
Advanced 3D graphics and GestureTek’s video gesture control software make the whole tabletop multi-touch-sensitive, so several users can access information simultaneously. Moving stories materialize along the table, converging (when touched) into an information window containing text, images, film and animation. Two 1080p High Definition projectors deliver and control table images.

Results
Creativity and innovation made Serendipity informative, entertaining and beautiful. Its size and technology garnered attention from media, tourists, locals, and other tourist attractions. As the world’s largest multi-touch table, and the first large-scale multi-touch installation for both GestureTek and ZedBuffer (creative designer), the tower’s tourism appeal increased.

Problems/Challenges
Serendipity’s size was a challenge. The entire tabletop required multi-touch interactivity so tourists could approach from anywhere and use simultaneously. Melbourne-oriented custom content was required. The technology and content needed to be highly engaging for all kinds of tourists. Precise camera technology was required for reliability under all conditions.

Solutions
GestureTek modified its dual-projector technique to create a seamless image projected onto the tabletop from below. With the help of Jonathan Duckworth at ZedBuffer design in Australia, we were able to provide smooth-flowing yet informative content in mellow, engaging colours. The body-tracking software was configured for maximum touch-sensitivity.