Smart Corridor

Showcase technology considering the media ecology visitor experience

The Smart Corridor represents the design of an installation for a corridor in Eni's Bolgiano Labs building to showcase geological materials and informational videos on drilling technologies and site experiences. The showcase is designed for flexibility so it can be applied to future locations and used to showcase an expanded array of content.

The project aims to showcase technologies in the corridor taking into consideration the media ecology visitor's experience before, during and after their visit, aiming to create a new and innovative experience within Bolgiano Labs in order to impress and inform Eni visitors and staff. It should articulate the values guiding Eni's business and shaping its future. 

We used four user types as a starting point to identify motivations of visitors who will engage with the Eni showcase:

- Executive visitors

- Visiting researcher

- Visiting student group

- Eni staff

Showcasing

The research includes new and innovative materials. We intend to go beyond the geological materials Eni already displays to find the materials that best highlights Eni's commitment to innovation.

Models of interaction

The goal of an innovative showcase is to engage visitors beyond simply displaying objects. Utilizing interactive technologies will impress and educate visitors in a fun and exciting way. These models of interaction highlight ways to engage visitors.

The models of interaction can be divided by the level of their visitor's engagement. 

The participatory model of interaction (simulation, public conversation) actively engages visitors, immersing them in content or asking for commentary.

The responsive model of interaction (physical interaction, digital-physical interfaces, gestural interfaces) actively engages visitors but requires less of a sustained effort.

The informational model (first-persona narratives, information visualization) educates visitors without requiring active participation.

Technologies

The technologies involved in the project allow visitors to interact with objects and surface. We considered holographic projection, augmented reality, gesture interfaces and transparent screen or projection on glass as well as 3D printed objects and printed electronics.

Welcoming models

Many of the technologies and interactions are introduced to visitors before their arrival or sent with them as a memento of their visit. We need to assess visitor's needs within the context of a larger pre and post visit media ecology. This means that Eni's commitment to innovation will already be present before the visitor enters the space and will leave a lasting impression afterwards. We have embedded kiosks and technology ecosystems within the space, including wearable solutions (ergonomic, RFID) and mobile check-in apps with location based tagging and virtual assistants.