When I was teaching my Intro to Computing class a couple years ago, I would discuss the notion of ubiquitous computing and how common devices would be communicating with each other. While many of the students didn't see the advantage to being able to check their email or bank balance on the microwave (I can't blame them, since I don't see it either.), most did enjoy (or at least they liked the punchline) my tale of the fridge communicating wirelessly with the car so when you pulled into the grocery store parking lot, the car would recognize its location and a head-up display would remind you about your potential need to get a carton of moo juice ("Got Milk?").

Then I showed them an example that hit home for them. I showed them the now defunct Java version of the (it had way cool graphics -- the cycle lights changed to reflect the actual cycle mode!) Random Hall Laundry Server (text version is still available), which provides current status information about the washers and dryers in the basement of Random Hall at MIT. Suddenly ubiquitous computing wasn't so ridiculous, since it could have an impact on their lives, right there in the dorm. I then discussed some of the features I thought would be very possible to create with a networked washer and dryer.

Now it looks like IBM has 'productized' this entire idea, and added a few of those features (I wonder if it was one of my students who talked with a parent, who works at Big Blue...).

IBM hooks dorm washers, dryers to Web. "The souped-up washers and dryers also let students check a Web site for empty machines. From the comfort of their desktop or laptop, co-eds can add soap and fabric softener that is dispensed by the washing machine. Finally when the wash is done, kids can get an e-mail telling them to come and get it." [Hmmm, I wouldn't mind this myself... (via Wes.)]

My own dream version of a Web-enabled laundry center had the swipe card also lock the washer or dryer door (a laundry admin could override the lock, in case things got too busy and someone hadn't returned soon enough). That would help prevent bastards from stealing your clothes. I would always have a few students applaud when I mentioned that feature. :-)

6:46:50 PM  [] blah blah blah'd on this    [ blinked via Archipelago ]