EXPO 2015
17 Innovation Design solutions for the 2015 Universal Exposition
The vision: a new renaissance, starting from Milan
At the end of the Middle Ages, Italy is in a period of political decline, however, it is also in the middle of a cultural evolution, destined to begin a new era.
The typical institutions of the Middle Ages society are now obsolete, and new economic dynamics begin to erode the feudal structure that had been the dominant paradigm.
Most of all, new techniques are born that mark the new era, in which nothing remains the same: the social, the political, the economy, the culture.
And so ends the Middle Ages
The evolution – which will come to full maturity in the eighteenth century – begins with some courts that host scholars, scientists, and artists.
Ideas are at the heart of this new cultural movement, which soon spreads throughout Europe. The protagonist of this new phase of civilization is the man who exercises critical thinking, and and unlocks the secrets of nature. Confidence in the value of the individual, the centrality of aesthetics, the iron will of progress: these are some aspects of thinking and feeling stated during the Renaissance.
Rome, Florence, Naples and Milan (and some other minor towns along the way) are enriched with beautiful architecture, palaces, libraries, and priceless collections of paintings and sculptures. Works strongly desired by the enlightened governments of these cities. Works that are admired, and at the same time, testaments of a new concept of life: more free, more humane, more rational.
The Milan of the new millennium, and the vision of Mayor Moratti, are very close to the spirit that generated the birth of the Italian Renaissance.
On this belief, the cultural, artistic, and ethical projects of Expo 2015 were born.
And, of course, also by technological innovation. Because new techniques were, and are, enablers of the new.
INNOVATION DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Urban Kaleidoscope
This is aimed at some of the smaller places of interest, such as the Columns of San Lorenzo, and spots where people gather in the evenings. It will consist of magic urban furnishings painted with heat-sensitive paint that changes color as the temperature varies, sensorial carpets that play melodies as the flow of visitors fluctuates, and lighting linked to sensors that create light shows as the groupings of people change.
The Expo Xp
Visitors will wear special glasses (using virtual reality technology) that will allow them to view film clips and images from history, but appearing in today’s world. Such a system will add another dimension to the visitor’s experience as they meander through the pavilions, thus helping to reduce waiting times at specific exhibits.
Milano Social Club
This solution is aimed at visitors to Expo 2015 who wish to meet other people with similar interests. The visitor will be able to store their personal data in a network, enabling them to be recognized by other visitors, thanks to virtual reality glasses.
Holographic Pantheon
The world’s first Holographic Park: from above, historical figures of Milan will tell visitors about their city, thanks to giant images projected in the sky. At the conclusion of the Expo, they will become a virtual landmark for the city.
Holographic Pantheon
On national holidays, or festivals, the holographic images from Milan will make way for holograms from the celebrating country. A stunning spectacle in the skies of Milan, recreating the environment and atmosphere of the country in question.
Countdown 2015
This is a traveling exhibition on sustainable development, with the first stage in Milan. It will provide a sneak preview of the ideas for a sustainable future that will displayed at the Expo, and will target visitors from Milan, the rest of Italy, and abroad. This exhibition can be organized quickly, and thus become a showcase for BIE delegations and voting countries.
Virtual Pavilions
To promote global participation, and to ensure developing nations are involved in Expo 2015, digital solutions have been designed to provide effective, low-cost communication. Virtual Pavilions will be included amongst the other exhibits at the Expo.
Virtual metropolitan graffiti
All visitors will be able to leave messages in the busiest places of the city that can only be viewed, using mobile devices and tablets, by the visitors they are intended for. This will turn Milan into a living forum, a bulletin board for the exchange of opinions on food and nutrition, like a massive billboard for urban graffiti.
Virtual Playhouse
Based on advanced natural interaction, this recreation space is designed for children and youngsters where they can learn more about “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” through technological innovation, in a simple and fun way.
Expo Urban Tv
A multi-platform TV channel dedicated to informing visitors around the world about the Expo. Broadcasting to mobile devices, tablets, touch screens – when not in use – TV sets in hotel rooms, or a dedicated satellite network. The entire Expo will broadcast live: events, useful information, and interviews with key figures. A permanent forum on nutrition featuring international personalities and experts (in politics, science, culture and entertainment).
Extravagant Events
The most important Italian and international events will broadcast live on the world’s largest screens erected at Castello Sforzesco. It could also be used to celebrate national holidays, with live connections to participating countries.
All the main shows will broadcast live and made available for tourists.
Cross media Video-portal
The portal will allow everyone to have access to a wide range of services and functions.
This system is designed to be both extremely user-friendly and accessible from just about any device. It will provide information (films, multimedia clips and virtual tours), booking, ticketing, and customized services (video-call center and video-press room).
MPA (Mobile Personal Assistant)
This is a real-time information service designed to communicate with all portable devices that will be available in 2015. It provides three main benefits: 1) locations of virtual information points; 2) providing alternative routes, in order to reduce waiting times; and 3) an improved visitor experience by providing useful information and warnings, when necessary. This system will also provide comprehensive booking options for shows and events in the Milan area, as well as the chance to reserve urban transportation and/or a space in a parking lot.
All the services will be accessible through any mobile device (mobile phones, tablets, etc.).
I-Com will also be made available. It consists of a mobile device specifically created for Expo 2015, with more functionality than traditional devices. It will only be possible to use in Milan.
Milano InTouch (TOUCH screen information points)
These user-friendly, multilingual, and interactive touch screens will be placed in high-traffic areas. They will replace info stands, provide localized information and incorporate devices that will make them accessible to people with disabilities.
By highlighting the busiest areas, and suggesting alternative routes, these screens will help ensure crowds flow smoothly both at the Expo exhibits and in strategic parts of Milan. They will contain innovative applications, such as 3D world maps which – by touching the interactive areas – will guide visitors to whichever of the “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” themes they prefer.
In addition, they will broadcast the daily programs of Expo Urban TV.
Commuter Commorade
A system of interactive sensors designed to communicate with motorists and to provide information in real time, thus diverting traffic towards less busy roads and warning visitors of road conditions.
My Avatar
All visitors will have a digital alter ego. Visitors will only need to put their personalized ID card close to a specific reader and the system will record their booking to visit the chosen pavilion and provide information on the estimated waiting time. With this, visitors will be able to visit other areas of the Expo and then return at the designated time, thus optimizing their time.
ABC Pass (Consensual Biometric Access)
Such a device, designed only for staff and volunteers, is based on a biometric iris scan system. This will be used for individuals who are authorized to access restricted areas, but the system will be consensual, allowing individuals to opt out of participation.
