Tangible + Physical Computing + Contextual Enquiry
The Memory Vending Machine
Exploring Meaningful Interactions with Personal Photo Archives
DURATION:
Ongoing
SKILLS:
Laser Cutting, 3D modelling, Arduino, ReactNative, Qualitative Interview, Opportunity identification
SUPERVISORS:
Masa Inakage(Keio Media Design, Japan)
Andreas Lindegren(KTH, Sweden)
ABSTRACT:
This research focuses on personal photo archives, one of the fastest-growing forms of digital mediain terms of size. This paper consists of two parts–the first is an investigation of current practices andbehaviors related to the creation and management of personal digital photo archives, while also identifyinghow individuals attribute ’meaning’ and significance to both digital and physical mementos. The secondpart of this paper leverages this understanding and describes the design, deployment, and evaluationof the Memory Vending Machine—a digital provocation that presents a new way of interacting withphotos in our galleries. The machine acted as a channel for participants to connect with individual photosfrom their galleries in a more conscious and meaningful manner. It presented an alternative form ofinteraction with photo archives and provoked reflection on the emotional value of photographs. TheMemory Vending Machine disrupted conventional photo-browsing experiences, prompting participantsto reconsider their relationship with their digital archives. This paper contributes to the fields of HumanComputer Interaction (HCI) by highlighting the potential of interactive technology to foster mindful,reflective interactions with personal digital artifacts, encouraging deeper emotional engagement andreflection on memory.