Interaction in Motion with Mobile Projectors: Design Considerations

Paper in proceeding, 2015

Emerging research and growing use of mobile projectors reveal a need for better understanding of how to design interaction with such devices. This paper examines key aspects affecting the use of mobile projectors during motion. With the help of two prototypes we explore visibility issues of mobile projectors, in particular how surface colors and geometry affect the visibility of projected information. We then consider the choice of placement of information in the human field of view in the context of peripersonal and extrapersonal spaces. Finally, we raise the issue of body mount location and design implications of long-term use of this type of pervasive display. The paper presents two design explorations using projected displays to address projection on outdoor regular surfaces (snow) and projection on indoor irregular surfaces (indoor and outdoor), in the form of useable prototypes presenting map navigation. Use of the prototypes was explored in various contexts, leading to insights into the limitations and possibilities of such displays. These insights are presented in a set of design considerations intended to inform designers of future mobile projector applications.