Abstract

Until now, the paradigm of Human-Computer Interaction has focused on the interaction with two-dimensional interfaces showing the strong dichotomy between the real and the digital. The advent of virtual worlds are opening up new possibilities to develop spaces that can be more appropriate in certain circumstances to show users specific type of information, create physical places or objects which faithfully represent the real world, geolocate or interact with them beyond the limitations of twodimensional images and the written word. Finally, the arrival of the augmented reality aims to go beyond the simulation of a three-dimensional environment on a flat surface such as a monitor showing the three-dimensional virtual objects and take all the digital advantages resulting from this for improve the learning and knowledge human.

Abstract

Second Life is a three-dimensional virtual environment that many consider merely a game but it has enormous possibilities for elearning and communication. There are academic libraries that are trying to take advantage of it; the Universidad Carlos III Library is one of them. This paper presents its project, with which it expects to anticipate that which very probably will be the future way of displaying information on the internet: 3D web.

Abstract

The electric vehicle is presented as an environmental friendly alternative to common vehicles and as the future of transportation. However, car manufacturers consider that electric vehicle batteries are not useful for traction purposes when they reach a state of health of 80%. Thus, as a matter of fact, these batteries are sold knowing that they have a premature obsolescence, as they still have 80% of useful capacity that could be used elsewhere. This study analyzes economically and in terms of ageing performance the possibility to provide a second life to these batteries in buildings. The study presents several scenarios depending on the battery use, considering independent buildings or getting closer to the concept of smart grid with demand response services where buildings could participate in secondary electricity markets by means of an energy aggregator. Moreover, the study analyzes the existing European markets that allow aggregated demand response services. Results show that, effectively, the reuse of batteries for residential purposes might not be the best economical option even though their lifespan is enlarged four years more. Nonetheless, if they are able to participate in secondary electricity markets in addition to their normal use in buildings, the business becomes juicy enough having a relatively low impact on ageing. The promotion of electric vehicle battery reuse is necessary, as there is a large amount of batteries with a huge useful potential in stationary applications coming in the nearby future from the electric vehicles that have been sold during the last five years. If possible, car manufacturers should consider eco-design in order to facilitate this battery repurposing and lifespan enlargement. Peer Reviewed