LG Electronics ’ concept of the digital home network is close to becoming a reality for Australian consumers, a development representing a significant way that people will interact with their appliances.
The company defines a digital home network as one where all electronic appliances are linked to a single system, enabling two-way communications such as being able to operate internet-enabled devices from a remote location. Users will be able to connect to the home network via the net or telephone and carry out tasks such as checking the contents of the refrigerator or turning on the air conditioning system and setting the correct temperature.. In the kitchen, consumers will be able to download recipes through their microwave oven and save the cooking programs for future reference.
At the heart of of the home network will be the digital TV which becomes the server and the hub.LG Electronics has invested in the development of digital appliances will be seamlessly interconnected and networked, already developing a number of internet-enabled goods such as the internet refrigerator and internet washing machine.
The internet refrigerator is a 730L, stainless steel, side-by-side refrigerator, with an in-built computer can be accessed via a 37cm touch-screen LCD monitor mounted on the fridge door. Users can watch TV, listen to MP3 music, take and store digital photos, make a video phone call, use the fridge as a digital message board, or surf the web. Other features include VCR and DVD ports, a microphone and speakers. Information about food in the fridge can be stored and a map of the fridge allows the owner to keep an inventory of what foods are in each section and how long they have been there.
Source: Building Products News.