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Interactive Surroundings

The Interactive Surroundings project builds on earlier Smart Habitat and AgingAtHome project efforts. The goal is to build systems which provide better security, safety, and user responsiveness and services in commercial and residential buildings, and in public spaces. This initiative is being developed using core MERL IP in areas of vision, networking and human computer interaction.

Background & Objective:  MERL recognizes the need to utilize prior investments in IP and leverage its core competencies. We plan initially to demonstrate technologies that are central to a broad variety of applications -- whether in residential buildings or commercial, or for elderly people or young, or passive surveillance or active interaction. We will then use that technology to support the more specific needs expressed by Business Units.

Technical Discussion:  Advanced systems will be developed using ubiquitous computing constructs of context of information, and advances in MERL's core competencies of vision, networking, machine learning, human computer interaction and systems engineering. Potential applications include using existing MERL IP in face modeling/recognition, MidArt Real Time Networking, Artificial Retina and machine learning.     These competencies will be applied toward systems which range in functionality from aiding facility management professionals to end consumer services. Hardware resources will include- cameras and other sensors, multiple computing systems and wireless/networking infrastructures.

Technology Areas:
Computer Vision
Audio Video Processing
Networks

Modification Date:  September 12, 2007