Interactive Design of Memory Sharing Applications for Families.

Previous research on ubiquitous computing in homes has tended to focus on system-oriented issues such as automated controls and sensor networks. In contrast, this paper reports on research oriented to families living in homes. Handling and sharing memories stored on external media is difficult within current homes, though sharing memories, and communicating through them is an important part of family life. Relevant data is often kept in digital storage and infrequently accessed if at all. We have established design principles and developed the following prototype interfaces within the home that increase interactions amongst family members: TimeAfterMirror; PushPull; MemoryBubbles; Asnaro. These prototypes jointly form a system for dealing with family memories. This system can be used to capture, organize, review representations of past events, and support communication. These prototypes were demonstrated within a home-like environment at an exhibition in Tokyo in November 2006. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]