The Media Interaction Lab
The Media Interaction Lab (MiL), originally established at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, has moved to Italy, is now part of the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, and operates from NOI Techpark. Since 2004, the lab has been conducting research in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Physical Computing, and Ubiquitous Computing, with a specific emphasis on designing, implementing, and evaluating next-generation user interfaces. Our research methodology combines theory, design, and evaluation, addressing real-world problems posed by industry partners such as BMW, KTM, SEFAR, and Tratter Engineering, and actively involving these users in a user-centered design process.
Having extensively researched mixed reality and tabletop interaction, the lab has evolved to focus on large interactive surfaces, creative environments, next-generation interfaces, and smart textiles. In recent years, we have expanded our research to include hardware-related domains like sensing technologies and hardware design. This shift is evident in our recent projects with automotive companies, where our primary goal is to develop and investigate next-generation vehicle interfaces.
Current Projects
SmartCover (2024 – 2026)
In SmartCover, the goal is the design and development of smart laminated dashboards, with the simultaneous reduction of plastic components and haptic plastic buttons and controls.
iPlayground (2024 – 2026)
In iPlayground, we will set up a smart textile lab with a strong focus on the design and development of smart textile interfaces based on warp knitting.
eMotion (2021 – 2024)
For an e-scooter demonstrator, developed by KTM, we design and implement a new HMI concept as well as a new dashboard. The aim of eMotion is to improve driver experience, usability, and driving range through the use of intelligent on-board information systems.
Lab Resources
