Introduction


The start of this module introduces me to different smart technologies around the world such as the London Oyster Card and The Cloud. Technology is evolving rapidly, therefore looking into technology which would be useful to help me in this project would be beneficial.

GPS:

Looking into the evolution of the GPS, started as personnel for the US military and transportation units to obtain their location. The first for GPS satellites were launched in 1978 but did not reach full potential until 1995 as a minimum of 24 satellites were needed for full coverage. The use of the GPS has evolved massively, making it easier for cars to navigate to their destination as well as API's such as Google Maps to show the quickest route and average time to arrive at the destination.

Image result for gps technology

Psychogeography:

Looking into Psychogeography got me thinking about Urban Environments and how they have changed over the many years. Defined by Guy Debord in 1955, as "the precise laws and specific effects of the geographical environment". Exploring cities and what makes them into a new awareness of the urban landscape helps bring playful strategies on the emotions and behavior of individuals. Looking into the Psychogeography of Paris has helped me to understand that Paris, the city of love and lights, can be played around with into different sections, each displaying their own unique 'feature', but once put together can bring a sense of unity. 

Image result for guy debord paris

Technological Realities

With the rise of technology which is ever-changing, the use of Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Reality have taken a huge turn in the market. Looking into different realities will definitely define the world with how we use technology in the future. As it is just starting up now, with the success of Pokemon Go in 2016 and Virtual Reality incorporated gaming, technology is always evolving into something newer and better. Looking into Technological Realities last year, I came across 'Hyper Reality' fascinated me, not only because of the bold and bright colours which are used but also because of how realistic this could be in the future. Everything can be revolved around technology and can somewhat look like a dystopian version of Pixar's Wall.E.



Smart cities

I found that by looking into open data and smart cities, I found that one of the reasons these cities are 'smart' is because they use the data they find to tackle a problem which may have an impact on the environment or society. Charging stations to help function as bus stops of WiFi hotspots in Serbia, bike sharing programmes to let people know if there is a space available for a bike rider, smart climate control systems which would be useful for a home or business in terms of how they would be able to save energy with their environment, etc. All of these programmes can help bring change to society, which would cause an efficiency increase with how people can go about in their day. 

Image result for smart cities

Overall

I found that some of the research I have done so far has helped me to look at this project with a better light. With some inspiration for how smart technology can be used, it has shown me that finding a small problem and using technology to find a solution would be beneficial for a majority of people. Looking into Psychogeography and the use of the GPS can help shape the idea of using the environment around us and playing around the streets like it is a game. It is supposed to be playful, using different API's and tools we would be able to craft something that people would enjoy, such as Geocaching or an online game. Using the environment as an advantage as an opportunity for a game could lead to something magnificent as there would be trails and improvement for the developer and a great outcome.

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