TinkerSheets: Using Paper Forms to Control and Visualize Tangible Simulations

This paper describes TinkerSheets, a paper-based interface to tangible simulations. The proposed interface combines the advantages of form-based input and paper. Form-based input allows to set an arbitrary number of parameters. Using paper as a medium for the interface keeps the interaction modality consistently physical. TinkerSheets are also used as an output screen to display summarized information about the simulation. A user study conducted in an authentic context shows how the characteristics of the interface shape real world usage. We also describe how the affordances of this control and visualization interface support the co-design of interaction with end-users.