You’ve gotta hand it to Philips…

Among the myriad products on display at the

in

, was

Entertaible. Currently a working prototype, this is a tabletop gaming platform that combines multi-player board and computer games. It comprises a 30in horizontal LCD, touch screen-based multi-object position detection, and supporting control electronics.

The idea for Entertaible isn’t new, but previous attempts to create such gaming platforms have required complex arrangements of overhead cameras and dimmed lighting. The device is based on a series of infrared LEDs and photodiodes mounted around the perimeter of the LCD screen. It requires no special lighting conditions or other equipment and is operated by touch alone. It can simultaneously detect dozens of objects, including fingers.

After CES, Entertaible will be subjected to additional field tests at the Philips HomeLab research centre in

, the

.