Exploring SCI As Means of Interaction Through the Design Case of Vacuum Cleaning

This paper explores the opportunities for incorporating shape changing properties into everyday home appliances. Throughout a design research approach the vacuum cleaner is used as a design case with the overall aim of enhancing the user experience by transforming the appliance into a sensing object. Three fully functional prototypes were developed in order to illustrate how shape change can fit into the context of our homes. The shape changing functionalities are: 1) a digital power button that supports dynamic affordances, 2) an analog handle that mediates the amount of dust particles through haptic feedback and 3) a body that behaves in a lifelike manner dependent on the user treatment. We report the development and implementation of the functional prototypes as well as technical limitations and initial user reactions on the prototypes.