DisplayCabinet is a clever use of a projected display and RFID tags to take data away from the computer screen an into the physical world.
The aim of our project was to tackle turning data into information that’s easy to digest and act upon. We set out to avoid screens that draw focus and create a prototype “calm” projected display for the data created by, for and about the people, products and services that can be found in and around the home.
By default a small ring is shown, and when an RFID-labeled object is placed in the center the display changes accordingly. Drop a set of house keys on DisplayCabinet, and you see information about your house such as the temperature and whether Mr. Cuddles the household pet is out or not.
Similarly, when you put the fridge ornament in the center of the circle, you see the temperature and if you’re out of milk. Or put your wallet and get information about your finances.
See DisplayCabinet in action below. While just a prototype produced during a 24-hour hack session, it’s easy to see the potential.
[Ben Bashford via infosthetics]
This is a clever trick. It will be even more clever to see how someone makes it practical or commercial.