oddlight

Free Network Visible Network

10:12 AM augmented reality

Spanish researchers Clara Boj and Diego Díaz are working on the Free Network Visible Network , an augmented reality project which aims to make visible the exchanged information between computers of a wireless network.

First marks in the facades of the buildings will indicate the presence of a node, thus the possibility of connecting to the net, and at the same time to see the 3D representation of the information that we are interchanging with this node in real time.

Free game tools will then be developed that use the location of the players in the physical space as main element of the action development. For example, players would be able to modify the information (message, images or videos) on the marks placed in the physical space and record messages for other users / players. Or they would be able to change the publicity images or the urban signals by using small marks and creating game strategies.
Besides, the players will know in real time the position of other players if they are looking to a mark.

On the basis of these simple applications, users will be able to develop their own games.

Via Aminima.

Elevators get smart

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation in Japan developed a technology that combines RFID tags and cameras and makes elevators wait for people. Not the contrary.

By combining RFID and image processing, they claim that their system could recognize a person and tell if s/he wants to use the lift or is just waking near it, with no intention at all to step inside.

With the technology, the disabled and the elderly may be able to get on an elevator without the trouble of pushing buttons. Also, in an office building, employees could move back to their "home floors" without selecting a floor number everytime. Moreover, tags can be used to prevent unauthorized persons from getting on an elevator.

Some technical challenges still remain. The company plans to commercialize the technology within 5 years.

Via RFID in Japan.

Ledusoid, the inflatable chandelier

Ledusoid, by AKAirway the big bubble specialist, is an inflatable chandelier made of 350 LEDs sealed in plastic. Once attached to the ceiling the structure becomes a floating medusoid of light.

See also the squarish version.

Via near near future.