Project Description

The objective of the project is to develop a generic Software Framework for a special class of ubiquitous computing applications. This class of applications, called SmartBox applications, can be described as automatic content monitoring applications using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or other possible Auto-ID technologies like Infrared or Bluetooth.

The following list shows some existing SmartBox application examples to get an idea about the possible applications of the SmartBox framework:

Smart Toolbox Monitors the tools in a toolbox and the mechanic who is using them. Displays the content of the toolbox and tool usages and warns if tools are missing or placed in the wrong toolbox.  Smart Medicine Cabinet Monitors the medicine that is placed in or taken out by a patient or pharmacist and displays information about prescriptions, incompatibilities or recalled drugs.  Smart Surgical Kit The usage of bandages and swabs during a surgical operation is monitored and the usage status is displayed to avoid leaving any operation tools in the patient.  Smart Suitcase Observes everyday items placed in the suitcase by the owner and the content can be visualized by an external display.  Smart Shelf Products on a shelf are monitored to enhance replenishment and identify misplaced products.

The SmartBox framework should enable software developers to built SmartBox applications by combining and configuring the framework components. In the future this should be done using generative programming techniques.

The project is done in the following major steps:

• Analyze the example applications and their requirements to identify the generic and special components.
• Design and implement the SmartBox framework based on the generic components of the applications.
• Implement the framework using the Java programming language.
  
• Instantiate the framework for several SmartBox applications to proof the framework concept.
• Analyze the Instantiation procedure of the SmartBox Framework and determine the requirements for an Automated Framework Instantiation Environment.
• Design and implement the Automated Framework Instantiation Environment.

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Project Documents

•  Vision Document v1.0 (04.07.2003)
  
  
•  Analysis Document v0.8 (in progress)
  
  
•  Design Document
  
  
•  Diploma Thesis
  

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Project Source Code

The project source code for the first stage of the project will be available around end of September.

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