"Robotic Displays" is an experimental interaction design experiment dealing with the implications of media on top of autonomous motion; of communication through physical space. The project involves six robotic "pixels," each functioning as a standalone unit in the overall integrated display system, that move and act based off actions sent to each remote system from a centralized brain. The project functions as an exploration of the future role of media augmenting physical space through motion and personality, moving through space, engaging with environments and, ultimately, with people.

These robotic displays are tangible and tactile. They occupy and move through physical space, and are thus subject to the same spatial rules and limitations faced by any other physical objects. These constraints lend themselves to potentially interesting outcomes in terms of interactivity and negotiation. An abundance of questions quickly begin to surface--how do they move? How do they behave? Does this movement and behavior begin to allude to the development of a type of personality? How does one communicate with them? Where do they go when you're not using them? What role do they take on in our daily lives?

"Robotic Displays" works in conjunction with "Curious Displays" to flush out this future display technology. The project explores our relationship with devices and technology by examining the multi-dimensionality of communication and the complexity of social behavior and interaction. In its essence, the project functions as a piece of design fiction, considering the fluctuating nature of our present engagement with media technology and providing futurist imaginings of other ways of being.

Julia Tsao is a user experience designer, design researcher and interactive tinkerer. She is partner and creative director of explorative design consultancy and creative shop Fair Enough, based in Los Angeles, CA, where she explores the social implications of ubiquitous computing, augmented reality, and new media on our daily lives. Motivated by design research and ever-evolving creative strategies, she seeks to inform the development of immersive experiences through design-driven inquiry. Her projects have been featured in Fast Company, Wired, Gizmodo, Makezine, and Creativity.

http://cargocollective.com/juliatsao