Composite human-computer interface allows multiple devices to share and coordinate their interactions
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The SMARCOS initiative focused on developing technology based on internet sharing between devices, which allows the interfaces and attributes of various digital devices to work seamlessly together in smart ecosystems. The smart coaching service, for example, can use all the user’s digital devices for motivating his/her behaviour towards the goals or for reminding medication.
What is unique about the technology is the way it makes use of information on the actions and processes of several people in a single situation to guide the operation and functions of device interfaces.
The physical interface stays the same, but the intelligence and functionality of the user interface level improve. The functions of an interface respond more accurately to users’ needs when devices, services and applications are able to follow and predict the users’ actions. Interfaces can be distributed among devices and surfaces and therefore help users to be supported better by their digital services and applications.
One example of a system that has already been implemented successfully includes a service that encourages consumers to lead healthier lifestyles. The healthy living service operates on all the user’s digital devices (mobile devices, TVs, car, computers, activity monitors). A real-time behaviour monitoring service controls when and through which device the user can be given information, reminders and encouragement. The service interacts with systems that encourage consumers to exercise, remind them to take their medication and help them to educate themselves.
The technologies developed during the initiative included multi-device interface technology, as well as real-time consumer behaviour interpretation technology. Several new tools and software applications were also developed for use in building smart, roaming interfaces. This makes it possible to use IoT (Internet of Things) devices as interfaces for connecting to cloud services. The initiative also laid down the groundwork for integrating physical products and cloud services and creating new business opportunities.
A minimalist interface prototype for controlling household energy consumption was developed in collaboration with Offcode Oy. The user-friendly prototype can be used to control household energy consumption and to buy and sell energy. These kinds of interfaces are likely to be available for consumers before the end of the year, estimates the VTT Technical Research Centre.
For such a pervasive interface, ubiquitous interoperability is key. Ultimately, most mobile devices, household appliances and in-car information systems should run on the same interface software in order to improve user experience.
In addition to VTT, other Finnish SMARCOS partners included Valve, IXONOS, Offcode, Nemein and Nokia. Foreign partners included Barco (BE), SIRRIS (BE), Human Interface Group (BE), Philips (NL), TP-Vision (NL), University of Twente (NL), EVALAN (NL), Phi-I (NL), Indra Sistemas (ES), ESI (ES), Honeywell (CZ), Fjord (UK), Intecs (IT) and CNR (IT). The project budget was approximately EUR 14.2 million, and financed by the ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking and local public sector sponsors.
Visit the SMARCOS initiative at www.smarcos-project.eu
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