About The Roomware Project

What is it?

The Roomware Project is an open-source software framework for building applications that use wireless protocols (like RFID/WIFI/Bluetooth/) to connect people with data and places. The codebase is commonly used by developers to creative reactive spaces or connected experiences indoors.

Got any real-world examples?

Connection Table
"Add Friend" ported to the physical world, using UHF RFID.
A visual symphony at FITC
A visual & responsive symphony for toilet visitors at the annual Flash In The Can (FITC) festival, activated by Bluetooth devices detected.
FlickrPickr
An ambient experience created via people sharing their photos stored online, on sites like Flickr and Hyves, with their bluetooth presence.
Gifted: A whuffie-inspired experiment at Impakt 08
Mobile Game played across multiple zones

How does it work?

For instance: Bluetooth, RFID, WIFI or just a button somebody can push. All of these so-called scanners can be hooked up to a Roomware Server. This server polls the scanners regularly, gets the data from them (like position or media), and outputs this in a handy XML file on a given IP address. Your application can then make a HTTP GET call to that address and translate the data into something fun.

What's the goal?

To develop Roomware as a framework and server with test applications that is stable and easy to install. To provide a variety of applications people can use as a guideline to developing their own. A research environment where we can explore new potential use cases for Roomware applications.