© Nadeem Haidary 2009

Bibliofile

This electronic book reader uses page-turning gestures to generate the power necessary to update an e-paper display. These gestures provide cognitive, mechanical and digital feedback to the person using the device. The device’s Active Reading margin supports the reader by providing applications like a dictionary and word games in a way that doesn’t distract like reading texts on a computer does. By harnessing both human and computing power, Bibliofile provides a rich reading experience for avid readers.

Before designing Bibliofile, I surveyed and interviewed people to find the reasons why people don’t like reading digital texts. Amongst the biggest complaints were the lack of tangibility and the need to charge a device.

I also looked into the way people turn pages. Most people use the top-left corner to go forward a page and the bottom-left to go back.

Quick prototypes were made to explore different interactions that would simulate turning a page as well as provide enough kinetic energy to update an e-paper screen.

This diagram maps out a framework for Bibliofile's tangible and screen interactions.

Another version of the device with a rotational gesture was prototyped and actually generates power using a motor as a generator. It also used a projector to simulate the interaction of moving through text.

Various elements of Bibliofile’s interface and hinge mechanism being designed on paper.

This sample of sketches explore different forms and interactions for an e-book reader.

The interaction that was developed for the final design has a margin that can be flipped up to go to the next page or flipped down to go to the previous page. The flipper’s taper allows it to be read comfortably on a flat surface.

At left are alternative material combinations, including leather and cast cork bases. Bibliofile’s stylus has two buttons (one is the nib) that send a wireless signal to the device using the voltage generated by applying strain to a piezoelectric element. The stylus thus does not require batteries or charging.

The major internal elements. Of particular importance is the diode bridge, which allows current to be generated regardless of which way the generator is turned.

Using a color e-paper display and capacitive touchscreen, the interface supports stylus or finger interaction. It is designed with the challenge of updating the display as little as possible to conserve energy.