Tangible interface simulations to learn about layout and optimization
Key words:
Logistics assistants, Tangible interface, Simulation, Tinkerlamp
Learning objective | Time | Modality | Audience | Technologies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Optimize storage and movements of goods in a warehouse, manage the dataflow and stock | 2 lesson units | Individual, group | Logisitic assistants | Tinkerlamp, Plastic shelves |
Overview
This scenario aims to foster students’ reflection about warehouse organization through practice with a mock-up. This scenario uses a mock-up of a warehouse consisting of a set of miniature plastic shelves which serves as a tangible interface for the TinkerLamp, which is a camera-projection system for augmented reality. The TinkerLamp camera, placed above the table, identifies the position of each shelf. The TinkerLamp projector displays augmented information on top of the shelves and on the table, for example, the distance between a shelf and the dock.
Description of the teaching approach
A Tangible User Interface (TUI) is a user interface which allows someone to interact with digital information through the manipulation of physical objects. These interfaces build on the intuitive knowledge people have about everyday objects and take advantage of their rich physical affordances.
The purpose of tangible interface development is to empower collaboration, learning, and design by giving physical forms to digital information.
Ohe benefit of a tangible interface is that it enables an enactive mode of reasoning, as well as empirical abstractions of sensori-motor schemes. It favors exploratory behaviors because tangibles are natural and intuitive to use, and at the same time constrain the range of configuration that can be made with the material.
Recipe
DIY
Tinkerlamp
This is the original tool used in the scenario.
Other simulators
There are a number of warehouse simulators on the market. Some examples include AnyLogic, Korber Supply Chain, and SimCad Pro. While these simulators do not have tangible interfaces like the TinkerLamp, students can still use them to design and simulate warehouse layouts.
Tips and tricks
The Tinkerlamp can be used in other vocational contexts, for example with carpenter apprentices to practice 2D and 3D representations.
Source
Schwendimann, B. A., Cattaneo, A. A., Dehler Zufferey, J., Gurtner, J.-L., Bétrancourt, M., & Dillenbourg, P. (2015). The ‘Erfahrraum’ : A pedagogical model for designing educational technologies in dual vocational systems. Journal of Vocational Education & Training, 67(3), 367‑396.
Schneider, B., Jermann, P., Zufferey, G., & Dillenbourg, P. (2011). Benefits of a Tangible Interface for Collaborative Learning and Interaction. IEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies, 4(3), 222‑232. https://doi.org/10.1109/TLT.2010.36