Relationship-Based Instrument Mapping of Multi-Point Data Streams Using a Trackpad Interface

Multi-point devices are rapidly becoming a practical interface choice for electronic musicians. Interfaces that generate multiple simultaneous streams of point data present a unique mapping challenge. This paper describes an analysis system for point relationships that acts as a bridge between raw streams of multi-point data and the instruments they control, using a multipoint trackpad to test various configurations. The aim is to provide a practical approach for instrument programmers working with multi-point tools, while highlighting the difference between mapping systems based on point coordinate streams, grid evaluations, or object interaction and mapping systems based on multi-point data relationships.