PALCOM: Palpable computing - A new perspective on ambient computing

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 03.0495-1

Key words (English)

Ambient intelligence; ubiquitous computing

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: 002057

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 6. Frame Research Programme - 1.2 Communications technologies

Short description (English)

See abstract

Abstract (English)

The PalCom project aims to research and develop a new perspective on ambient computing named palpable computing. Palpable denotes that systems are capable of being noticed and mentally apprehended. Palpable systems support people in understanding what is going on at the level they choose. Palpable systems support control and choice by people. Often the default mode for a palpable application is to suggest courses of action rather than acting automatically.
Palpable computing will go beyond state-of-the-art and complements the unobtrusive effectiveness of ambient computing with a focus on making the means of empowering people intelligible.
The two main objectives are to design (1) an open architecture for palpable computing; and (2) a conceptual framework to understand the particulars of palpable technologies and their use.
Secondary objectives include (1) design and implementation of a toolbox for the construction of palpable applications; (2) development of a range prototypes of palpable applications; and (3) gaining a firm understanding of a range of practices into which palpable technologies may be introduced.
The project will apply a participatory design process, where technical possibilities and scientific analysis are balanced with usefulness and the development is given direction through user needs. Through this work the project will contribute to the innovation of tools and techniques for user centred, participatory design of palpable applications. As an important element in this process the project entails continuous involvement of a number of user sites.
The PalCom consortium consists of a number of universities and companies, including SME, with top-level competencies in the areas of ambient computing, software architecture, embedded systems, user interfaces, participatory design and management of R&D projects

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 03.0495-1