The Key Table

The Key Table signals people’s moods when they enter the home. Depending on how forcefully they set their belongings on it – keys, phone, loose change, etc. – a mechanical picture frame swings out of kilter to signal their emotions and warn other household inhabitants. The table works by recording the readings from load sensors mounted under its top surface and performing calculations to distinguish the force of impact from the weight of objects when they are placed upon it. The result is sent wirelessly to the companion picture frame, which uses a motor to tilt it by a proportional degree.

Click here for an article about the project.

Date: 2003

A photograph of keys and wallet being thrown onto the Key Table, a motorised picture frame is on the wall behind
A photograph of the Key Table in the home of a participant with a bag, keys, and two phones on it
A photograph of a cat on top of the Key Table in the home of a participant