In the wake of the new Microsoft Surface Studio computer with built-in object recognition (a video you NEED to watch), Zytronic with Tangible Display have launched object recognition capability on its MPCT multi-touch glass (ZyBrid) and foil (ZyFilm ) sensor products up to 85″ in diagonal.

When deployed in touch tables, object recognition provides a compelling new way of engaging the user with the touch screen and the interactive content. The function is particularly well-suited to retail applications, museums and galleries. The Zytronic and Tangible Display solution is based on the attachment of physical markers to the objects to be tracked and does not require modification of the touch sensor or multi-touch controller. Tangible Display’s proprietary object recognition user interface (UI) software, ObjectViz, works in concert with proprietary Zytronic firmware that can be quickly installed onto a standard ZXY200 or 300, 40-point multi-touch controller.

A key advantage of the combined Zytronic and Tangible Display solution is that although the sensor will continue to respond to multiple touches, any objects placed on the screen that do not have the requisite “tags” on their base are disregarded. Therefore a cup, pen or a bag left on the table, or a sleeve making contact with the glass, will be ignored. As part of the guided setup process, the Tangible software is taught to recognize only a specific pattern of tags attached to an object, and respond accordingly. Furthermore, a full report of user interactions can be saved for later review and analysis.

Here are the details.