u-Photo: A Snapshot-based Interaction Technique for Ubiquitous Embedded Information

We present a snapshot-based direct interaction technique that enables to focus on particular embedded information corresponded to each target object from a limitless number of ubiquitous embedded information through actions of taking photos. With the proposed u-Photo which is augmented image data, available icons of embedded information will be overlaid on a focused target image when the u-Photo was taken and a user can operate networked appliances and monitor sensor data within the focused area. Based on this concept, several applications for intuitive interactions, remote operations and service reproductions have been implemented. We have demonstrated that the u-Photo is quite useful media for exchanging and realizing an easy direct interaction with various kinds of appliances.