FReCon: a fluid remote controller for a FReely connected world in a ubiquitous environment

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a Fluid Remote Controller, a general-purpose remote controller based on the ubiquitous computing view. FReCon offers remote control features over a wide range of appliances located within a room, with a unique controller implemented on portable devices like PDAs, handheld PCs, mobile phones, etc. More than the controller itself, FReCon means the whole FReely Connected world in which FReCon-enabled users and appliances interact: though acting naturally, the user can freely connect to the desired appliance, control it, disconnect from it and start communicating with another. A prototype implementation in the form of a smart TV remote controller is also described. This simple prototype makes it possible to understand the validity and the limits of our view, and give clues for further improvements.