Macines are getting more and more complex – whether it is about TVs, computers, mobile phones, cars or microwave ovens. The interface between human and machine should allow us a problem free interaction with the devices. The serviceability of a human-device-interface is called usability. We investigate with different methods the usability of hardware and software,…

Our Watchdog application controls and monitors individual exhibits within an exhibition. It communicates with the xCocos Server, reporting its status and receiving commands. All programs required for the exhibit are automatically launched by Watchdog, which simultaneously establishes a connection that allows the xCocos Server to query the exhibit’s current state. Commands such as start, reboot,…

ChatGPT said: The xCocos Server (eXhibit Control and Configuration System) serves as a central platform for control, maintenance, and data management in networked exhibitions featuring distributed interactive installations. With xCocos, it is possible to maintain a clear overview of which and how many stations are active within an exhibition. All stations can be remotely monitored…

At the Digital Media Technologies (DMT) department, we view visitor experience as a multidimensional concept. Based on our experience, exhibitions featuring outstanding hands-on and minds-on installations provide an excellent foundation for engaging visitor experiences. However, even the most sophisticated high-tech installations have limited impact if usability is not integrated from the very beginning of the…