Swedish research and experimental design studio, the Interactive Institute, is focused on the use of ‘new media,’ the emerging digital and communication technologies of tomorrow. From its research, the Institute often embodies its findings in designs that not only implement new technologies, but have lifestyle implications embedded into its crisp, modern functional products. To illustrate, here are five Institute designs purposed with modifying your home energy use.
1. Energy AWARE Clock, Interactive Institute
The smartest clock ever is in touch constantly with the energy in your home. I’m not talking about the energy you and your family exude, nor those ghosts in the attic; this is about the lights, dishwasher, TV, and the three on-line computers consuming electrical energy – that energy. Use as a wall, desk, or table clock, you can see how much energy is expended and even compare it to yesterday and the day before.
Energy AWARE Clock, Loove Broms & Karin Ehrnberger: ©Interactive Institute, photo by Ollie Dierks
Energy AWARE Clock, Loove Broms & Karin Ehrnberger: ©Interactive Institute, photo by Ollie Dierks
2. Share AWARE Light, Interactive Institute
Ever watch the lamps in the room when the vacuum cleaner is turned on? All of a sudden, the lights dim. Well, the Share AWARE Lights are intended to share power; as one lamp is turned up, the other radio-controlled lamps automatically dim. Sharing energy gives you light where you need it most. Also, the Share AWARE Lights create interesting atmosphere.
Share AWARE Light, Loove Broms & Karin Ehrnberger: ©Interactive Institute, photo by Loove Broms & Karin Ehrnberger
3. Energy Plant, Interactive Institute
This smart, elegant plant design is on a transparent LCD display that is wirelessly connected to your electricity meter. Each month your plant grows on the display; use a moderate amount of electricity and it will flourish, use too much and your blossoms will fall off and the plant will wither.
Energy Plant, Interactive Institute: ©Interactive Institute
Energy Plant, Interactive Institute: ©Interactive Institute
4. Static! Flower Lamp, Interactive Institute
Now this stunning lamp is going to stay just like it is…
Static! Flower Lamp, Interactive Institute: ©Interactive Institute
… until you change your energy behaviors!
Static! Flower Lamp, Interactive Institute: ©Interactive Institute
5. Power AWARE Cord, Interactive Institute
Instead of hiding what’s going on beneath the wire covers, the Power AWARE Cord is designed to visualize the energy being used by individual electronic devices. The effect is to make you extremely aware of the effects of things like turning up the volume on a TV, switching on the lamp, versus turning it off but leaving it plugged in, versus unplugging it…
Power AWARE Cord, Interactive Institute: ©Interactive Institute
The Interactive Institutes explores all kinds of energy in many environments. Some of its designs are interactive video and auditory games. Visit this energetic, inventive entity just for fun… Interactive Institute.
