Objectives and Methodology

1. here there Designingvideo communicationsystems for the home Sofiane Gueddana gueddana@lri.fr Objectives and Methodology This work is part of an exploratory research project based on the concept of multiscale communication [Roussel, 2006]. In a way similar to multiscale worlds “in which information can exist at multiple levels of detail” [Jul & Furnas, 1998], multiscale communication systems can transmit information at a variable level of detail and support smooth transitions between these levels. The exploration of this design space involves triangulation across different techniques, such as field observations, participatory workshops or rapid prototyping. Prototype #1: Pêle-Mêlecombines computer vision techniques with spatial and temporal filtering of the images and an original layout to support synchronous as well as asynchronous forms of communication ranging from casual awareness to focused face-to-face interactions. Design concept #1: the Past-Summarizing Machine is designed to support asynchronous communication. It allows users to navigate through the visual history of the activities that occurred at each of the connected places. Design concept #2: MirrorTable is designed to support opportunistic communications. When the user sits on the chair or touches an object on the table, a video link is randomly established with one of the remote sites. Users can then adjust the level of detail of the communication using explicit controls. Design concept #3: Picture Sharer allows to browse a collection of pictures and video clips and discuss them with a remote person.r