Ubiquitous computing

The main objective here is to research technologies that make it easier to develop computer systems that need to integrate into people´s environments on a large scale but in a non-intrusive way. These can be understood as an evolution of distributed systems where technology is invisible and provides integrated, proactive and context-aware services.

Within this framework, the GII has in recent years developed the concept of HI3 Technology (Humanised, Interactive, Intelligent and Integrated Technology):

• Humanised. It adapts technology so that all people can benefit equally from this technology in the most natural and the least intrusive way possible.
• Interactive. New paradigms and systems for human-machine interaction are developed. They are more efficient, transparent and adaptable to every particular user.
• Intelligent. Technological solutions must adapt to the needs, situations or preferences of people and be able to learn from past experience to evolve with the environment.
• Integrated. Technology must be integrated into all the areas where people perform their activities, creating ecosystems of objects and connected devices.

Around this technological vision that is being addressed comprehensively, the GII has created HI3 Architecture, which provides conceptual software architecture and common middleware on which to develop HI3 solutions for specific environments based on constructing advanced collaborative semantic services. Key elements of this architecture are: the UniDA (Uniform Device Access) middleware, which provides a homogeneous model and a set of tools for accessing heterogeneous networks of devices; the Generic Interaction Protocol (GIP), a layer of abstraction between digital systems and distributed multimodal interaction devices; or the Dandelion system, a development framework that facilitates the design and implementation of physically distributed multimodal interfaces, which in turn adapt to devices and users dynamically and automatically.

Thanks to its experience in this area, the GII has carried out a range of projects in residential and industrial areas. They were able to validate some of the tools developed under the concept of HI3Technology. For instance, over recent years, the following solutions have been the focus of our attention: increasing the quality of life for dependents, making it easier for residents to adapt to the nursing home environment or improving safety in and facilitating the maintenance of large vessels.

Related Projects

• OMNI: Virtual Assistant
• Watchman: Seaport surveillance with the help of sensors and intelligent systems
• Rosa-Mitus: Multi-sensor environmental sensing in urban transport
• Intelligent dynamic planning system for managing production and distribution through RFID labels
• Intelligent monitoring and management system for nursing homes
• Agent-based profiling architecture for biometric monitoring and management of athletes
• Kidcontrol: Aid to monitor children outdoors
• Knowledge extraction engine for managing audiovisual production processes