Dec 16 2005
Although the DVD recorder is connected, the TV screen is still blank. To avoid such mishaps, manufacturers test the interaction of their devices in costly laboratories. Simulation software offers a faster, lower-cost approach.
Much like a digital secret agent, the software quietly and inconspicuously observes the people in the meeting. As one of the participants stands up, the meeting assistant recognizes him as the next presenter. The software automatically opens up the required file, projecting it onto a display that best suits the type of presentation and the viewing angle of the audience. When a question is posed, the diligent assistant automatically answers by searching the presenter’s laptop for the right image and displaying it on another monitor as if controlled by an invisible hand.
Developers have so far tested innovative tools such as the meeting assistant by reconstructing actual rooms and real scenarios. This requires integrating the appropriate sensors, actuators, middleware and components and then adding the human element. However, this is a costly and time-consuming process that only large companies can usually afford. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD have created a unique simulation program that makes such test facilities largely superfluous.
“3DSim allows us to determine within a matter of seconds whether a device or a software program functions properly in conjunction with other devices,” explains Ali Nazari of the IGD. For instance, does the meeting assistant automatically turn on the light when it gets dark? Is there a way to transfer a movie playing on television to the display on the refrigerator at home?
“3DSim is based on a collaborative virtual environment platform. These are programs used to develop virtual environments,” says Nazari. “Inside this virtual space, customers can drag and drop additional devices and people into the room and move them around, adjust sunlight conditions or play movies on a virtual television.” He creates one new scenario after another to see how his product behaves. 3DSim is already commercially available.
As a final step, the customer can test his system in the IGD test laboratory. This guarantees that the inner workings and the interfaces of the real and virtual test devices are precisely the same. The Ambient Intelligence Lab, as it’s called, is nearing completion and will soon celebrate its official opening. Membership in the lab, which includes use of the software, will cost between 5,000 and 20,000 euros depending on the company’s size. Several European firms have already expressed interest.
http://www.fraunhofer.de/