A framework for detecting positions of objects in water

Owing to the development of graphical user interfaces, computers have become a common tool for use by all age groups both at home and at work. Furthermore, touchscreen-based user interfaces are now commonly used in mobile computers such as smartphones and tablets. When we anticipate that future computers will become invisible, that is, computing functionality will be completely embedded into household appliances, furniture, and houses, our interactions will not be limited to things on a display or a tabletop. In such situations, pleasantness may become important as well as accuracy and efficiency in interface design. This study presents a new scheme for detecting 3D positions of objects in water, based on our experiences with the development of aquatic interactive systems. For the detection of objects on a certain 2D layer in water, a line laser is used with a camera. Stacking multiple line lasers enables the detection of object positions in a 3D space.