Swiss building management company Implenia has been running some interesting experiments connecting the virtual and the real involving a Playmobil doll house, reports the Guardian. The toy house is equipped with various digital sensors that correspond to a virtual replica in Second Life, and the virtual version reflects changes made to the real house -- such as turning the thermostat up, or leaving a door open.

The technology's intended to make it possible to someday monitor and manage homes and buildings without necessarily being on-site, reducing expense by centralizing it through a single interface. They're also experimenting with the same technology in the hopes of creating safety systems for the elderly.

[The house where real and virtual worlds meet | The Guardian]