Using home networks to create atmospheres in the home

Abstract

The Atmosphere Controller is an implementation of home networking technology that could make life at home a totally new experience. An atmosphere is created by combining light (intensity and colour), music and wallpaper projection. To find out if is this type of experience fits into everyday life of people, we studied the current experience of creating atmospheres by conducting interviews and probes studies in people's homes [5]. The same people were later invited to test the application in a Lab environment. Although the lab tests showed that the Atmosphere controller offers a positive sensorial experience further research should be conducted in a more realistic setting.

QuintEssence:A Probe Study to Explore the Power of Smell on Emotions, Memories, and Body Image in Daily Life

“…This approach supports reflection by participants themselves as part of data acquisition (e.g. [48,74]). With this approach, participants take responsibility for and control what information they record or share in the probes [36].…”

A user experience-based approach to home atmosphere control

“…Although a generic model can serve as a starting point, atmosphere models need to be personalized to manage the different experience of atmospheres found between subjects. Second, laboratory studies with a basic prototype home atmosphere controller have shown that attachment to the system can be increased by allowing people to add personal content [11]. Possible approaches to personalization include content adaptation and remodeling.…”

“…The prototype evoked reactions of astonishment and surprise, and the default atmospheres inspired the participants to create their own, personal atmospheres [11]. Before a semantic model-based atmosphere controller can be deployed in the home, field studies need to examine the degree to which the atmosphere controller will be accepted as part of everyday life.…”