Memodules      

Project titleLogo

MEMODULES as tangible shortcuts to multimedia information

Overview of the project and expected outcomes

  • Project description: MEMODULES are tangible shortcuts to multimedia information. Tangible interfaces can be useful to establish links between our memory and information. We call them "MEMODULES". They roost abstract information in the real world through tangible shortcuts. MEMODULES are tiny tagged physical objects containing a link towards information sources that can be further accessed by several devices. We consider them as tangible hypermarks, i.e. embedded hyperlinks to abstract information attached to everyday physical objects. MEMODULES not only materialize information in the real world through tangible reminders, they also help controlling daily life devices (see Fig.1a).
  • Keywords: smart environment, tangible user interfaces, multimodal interaction, HCI, sensor networks, RFID, end-user programming, information visualisation etc.
  • Outcomes: Several prototypes have been developed (see Fig. b). First of all a software platform allows users to create Memodules (augmented physical objects) from objects of the everyday life (a pen, a seashell, a mug, etc.) and to program those Memodules using a graphical editor based on puzzle metaphor (end-user programming). Then a light version of this platform running on mobile phones has also been developed. Finally a sensor networks integrating sensors such as light, temperature, noise, etc. used to personalize and contextualize Memodules interaction with the surrounding environment has been created. Demos are available on the website.
 Schéma
Memodules scenario and prototypes

Website of the project

www.memodules.ch 

Project Information

Ongoing project, financed by the Hasler Foundation.