The exploration of unconventional methods of magnetism and the propertiesof atoms on well-controlled surfaces allows IBM scientists to identify entirely new computing paths.
Developers will be able to translate some of the metadata attributes of individual pieces of content on the screen into physical properties that affect how the surfaces on which that content is represented move or react to touch.
Such fields are everywhere, and the researchers suggest that their approach could be used for mapping electric fields on the surfacesof materials and getting a better understanding of their properties.
Certain materials that can be made to adhere to surfaces in regular lattices could be used to maximise the reflective propertiesof road signs at night.