November 24, 2005
FInal Project
The Looking Box
by Kathryn Bauer, Fiona Carswell, Aaron Harmon, Kati London
The looking box is a device that allows users to enter an interior space within a closed box using live video output, that is directly affected by the user's interaction with the box.
Keywords
live video, interactive, accessibility
Description
The looking box provides a participatory way for users to remotely view live video from a physically inaccessible space.
Sliding handles on an ordinary filing box control the position of a mini-wireless camera within the interior space. The live video feed from the camera, displayed on a monitor next to the box, allows users to visually navigate through the length of the enclosed space.
Background
There are many spaces which are physically inaccessible, and are only visually accessible through a mediated experience, whether this is an ultrasound or a surveillance camera.
This project enables users to enter into and navigate through a physically inaccessible space. This project, allows anyone to "look inside," Depending on how each person moves the box, the experience varies.
Audience
Guests of the 2005 ITP Winter Show
User Scenario
1. Users will find an index card filing box (approximately 11.25 x 5.25 x 5.25") on a pedestal at 41", and a video monitor on a separate table or wall beside it.
2. The box has sliding handles on its sides which invite users to move them back and forth. This motion will alter the live video feed on the adjacent monitor.
3. The user can then choose to open the lid of the index card filing box, to see the mechanism within.
Implementation
The interior space is created inside of a repurposed index card filing box which sits upon a cardboard base on a wooden pedestal. Inside the box, a mini-wireless video camera and LED light are affixed to a cardboard structure.
This structure slides back and forth when exterior side handles are moved by the user, revealing the interior space on the adjacent video monitor through a live video feed.
Posted by Kate Bauer at November 24, 2005 11:05 AM