SMAALL: interacting with a smart home through a synchronized scale model

In this paper, we describe an interactive 1:35 scale model of the Bremen Ambient Assisted Living Lab that can be used to monitor and control devices in a smart home, such as lights, electronic sliding doors, height-adaptable furniture and a smart wheelchair. The model consists of i) a digital display on the floor, ii) a physical model of the walls and furnishing, and iii) a touch sensor on top. The approach allows the user to directly manipulate devices through touch gestures, and avoids the need for navigation through hierarchical menus or virtual 3D worlds. The model can also be conceived as interactive map of the environment, and we discuss how such a model could provide route information for pedestrians in buildings or cities.