Long waits at airport gates can be tiring, especially when there are flight delays. The most common occupation for adults is the mobile phone and correspondingly for children the tablet. Recognizing that this is not the best practice, as – according to studies – prolonged screen use increases anxiety. SCIENCE @ GATES proposes placing interactive exhibits at the airport gates, from the Science area, with which travellers can interact on a physical level and spend their time constructively.
The Science@Gates team is dedicated to transforming airport gates by installing engaging, interactive exhibits, designed to make waiting time enjoyable and stimulating for travellers of all ages. These exhibits offer a refreshing alternative to staring at screens on smartphones or tablets.
The “Digital Gate IV” competition provided an invaluable platform for a multidisciplinary group of experts to collaborate and create a remarkable exhibit, while also developing an innovative business model.
The development, installation, and testing of the first exhibit, the “Chaotic Pendulum,” was a smooth process despite the numerous challenges faced. The exhibit’s original design had to be adapted to include a braking system on the main axis of rotation. While this feature might have been excessive in a controlled museum setting, it was deemed essential in the bustling airport environment. Furthermore, an electronic telematics system was incorporated to track the rotations of the main axis and transmit usage data in real-time – a novel addition to the exhibit design. The airport authorities guided the team through various safety requirements during the exhibit’s design, construction, and installation, highlighting previously unconsidered factors, such as the specific safety regulations governing construction materials for airport environments.
Kostas (MSc in Physics), Giorgos (MSc in Electrical Engineering and PhD candidate), and Haris (MSc in Marketing and PhD candidate) may sound like the beginning of a whimsical story, but they are, in fact, the dynamic trio behind the creation of a unique Greek company. Their mission is to design and build interactive exhibits with high added value and a focus on international markets. Kostas leads exhibit design and creation, Giorgos handles electromechanical aspects, and Haris promotes the products to both domestic and international customers.
