Smart sinks: real-world opportunities for context-aware interaction

Authors:
Leonardo Bonanni;Ernesto Arroyo;Chia-Hsun Lee;Ted Selker
Affiliations:
MIT Media Laboratory, Cambridge, MA;MIT Media Laboratory, Cambridge, MA;MIT Media Laboratory, Cambridge, MA;MIT Media Laboratory, Cambridge, MA
Venue:
CHI '05 Extended Abstracts on Human Factors in Computing Systems
Year:
2005

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Abstract

Can implicit interaction with a computer easily drive useful interface improvements in physical world settings? This paper presents a case study presenting multiple such context-aware interaction improvements in a sink. We have identified opportunities where automated interfaces at the sink have positive consequences for safety, hygiene and ecology. The danger of scalding oneself with hot water is confronted by transforming the water into a graphical user interface and using image understanding to dispense the proper temperature of water. Audio-visual feedback at the sink can motivate users to conserve water. Used in combination with an RFID reader, the sink can serve as an effective means of verifying hand-washing compliance for clean environments. Finally, automatic actuation of the sink's height based on the user and task can prevent burns and ergonomic injuries. This project demonstrates that the integration of digital interaction in a hostile environment can facilitate and improve our daily rituals.