Ubiquitous computing is fostering an explosion of physical artifacts that are coupled to digital information -- so-called Spimes. We introduce a tangible workbench that allows for the placement of hyperlinks within physical models to couple physical artifacts with located interactive digital media. A computer vision system allows users to model three-dimensional objects and environments in real-time using physical materials and to place hyperlinks in specific areas using laser pointer gestures. We present a working system for real-time physical/digital exhibit design, and propose the means for expanding the system to assist Design for the Environment strategies in product design.

Tangible User Interfaces are well-suited to handling three-dimensional data sets by direct manipulation of real objects in space, but current interfaces can make it difficult to look inside dense volumes of information. This paper presents the Handsaw, a system that detects a virtual cut-plane projected by an outstretched hand or laser-line directly on an object or space and reveals sectional data on an adjacent display. By leaving the hands free and using a remote display, these techniques can be shared between multiple users and integrated into everyday practice. The Handsaw has been prototyped for scientific visualizations in medicine, engineering and urban design. User evaluations suggest that using a hand is more intuitive while projected light is more precise than keyboard and mouse control, and the Handsaw system has the potential to be used effectively by novices and in groups.