Natan Linder and Pattie Maes from the Fluid Interfaces Group at the MIT Media Lab have invented a very usable LuminAR Bulb, that can be used in either an ordinary desk lamp in place of an incandescent bulb and'or a fully autonomous Augmented Reality (AR) computer pico projector/camera.
"The LuminAR Bulb combines a Pico-projector, camera, and wireless computer in a compact form factor. This self-contained system enables users with just-in-time projected information and a gestural user interface, and it can be screwed into standard light fixtures everywhere. The LuminAR Lamp is an articulated robotic arm, designed to interface with the LuminAR Bulb. Both LuminAR form factors dynamically augment their environments with media and information, while seamlessly connecting with laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices. LuminAR transforms surfaces and objects into interactive spaces that blend digital media and information with the physical space."
Paula Aguilera and Jonathan Wiliams, produced a suavely slick video of the project to create two convincing feasible products., one more easily producible than the robotic version.
The project was originally submitted to the Tony Stark - Audi Innovation challenge, a largely conceptual based competition. Please bear in mind that viewing the project's sponsor site is like a never ending journey of possibilities including the Tron 2 preview, motor-sport and other videos, images, and documents. Nevertheless without a reasonably fast internet connection your interest will likely fade - and even though I do it seems it were too slow for this cool slick interactive website !
