LitPorts: On-demand Illuminated Ports to Facilitate Inter-device Connections in Low-light Conditions

Tiffany E Taylor, Wolfgang Stuerzlinger

Session: Tangibles and AI - Wednesday 2022-11-30 14:00-15:30 AEDT
Late Breaking Work and Case Studies Track
Remote Presentation

Abstract

Plugging a cable or peripheral into a device is an integral aspect of daily use of computing devices for most users. Yet, in low-light or constrained-visibility conditions the simple act of finding the receptacle to connect a cable to can be challenging and lead to user frustration. To alleviate this frustration we present LitPorts, a technology that illuminates receptacles in low-light conditions when a compatible plug is in proximity, making plugging a cable in substantially easier and leading to a better all-around user experience. We also present user feedback from our prototype testing demonstrating the broad appeal and applicability of LitPorts.