Ubiquitous Computing Applications Research Articles

IndoorPlant: A Model for Intelligent Services in Indoor Agriculture Based on Context Histories.

The application of ubiquitous computing has increased in recent years, especially due to the development of technologies such as mobile computing, more accurate sensors, and specific protocols for the Internet of Things (IoT). One of the trends in this area of research is the use of context awareness. In agriculture, the context involves the environment, for example, the conditions found inside a greenhouse. Recently, a series of studies have proposed the use of sensors to monitor production and/or the use of cameras to obtain information about cultivation, providing data, reminders, and alerts to farmers. This article proposes a computational model for indoor agriculture called IndoorPlant. The model uses the analysis of context histories to provide intelligent generic services, such as predicting productivity, indicating problems that cultivation may suffer, and giving suggestions for improvements in greenhouse parameters. IndoorPlant was tested in three scenarios of the daily life of farmers with hydroponic production data that were obtained during seven months of cultivation of radicchio, lettuce, and arugula. Finally, the article presents the results obtained through intelligent services that use context histories. The scenarios used services to recommend improvements in cultivation, profiles and, finally, prediction of the cultivation time of radicchio, lettuce, and arugula using the partial least squares (PLS) regression technique. The prediction results were relevant since the following values were obtained: 0.96 (R2, coefficient of determination), 1.06 (RMSEC, square root of the mean square error of calibration), and 1.94 (RMSECV, square root of the mean square error of cross validation) for radicchio; 0.95 (R2), 1.37 (RMSEC), and 3.31 (RMSECV) for lettuce; 0.93 (R2), 1.10 (RMSEC), and 1.89 (RMSECV) for arugula. Eight farmers with different functions on the farm filled out a survey based on the technology acceptance model (TAM). The results showed 92% acceptance regarding utility and 98% acceptance for ease of use.

Special issue on “Ubiquitous clouds and communication networks”

The recent technological enhancement in the communication and computing paradigm paves way for the development of next-generation ubiquitous IoT systems and applications. Moreover, the 5G and technology beyond are making huge differences on both computing and communication services. As the connectivity increases, the sheer volume of things connected through wireless mode for various real-time applications will not be efficiently handled by the existing technologies. The next-generation ubiquitous clouds and communication networks will gain the ability to leverage on-demand access through internet to utilize a shared pool of configurable communication resources. The ubiquitous cloud and communication platforms are widely used as services for data management, processing, and storage, whereas it can also enhance its reliability, flexibility, and efficiency by reducing the complexities. The research papers for this special issue were selected from among all the accepted papers by the special issue guest editors Dr. V. Suma, Dr. Ram Palanisamy, Dr. Xavier Fernando, and Dr. Robert Bestak based on the scope and objective of the journal. We appreciate the willingness of the authors to help in organizing this special issue. This special issue contains a collection state-of-the-art research articles with the objective to share research ideas and techniques in the areas of ubiquitous clouds and communication with the underlying technologies and applications, which include internet architecture and protocol, data analysis, information management, and its security. In particular, the articles included in the special issue analyzes the emerging state-of-the-art research areas like big data, cloud, cyber physical systems, and IoT to develop innovative solutions in order to overcome the existing challenges in computing and communication domains. This remains more essential to comply with the necessities of ubiquitous computing and communication applications. As one of the intended goals, the research articles aim to propose various network optimization algorithms, cloud/edge computing architectures, network routing protocols and task scheduling, self-organized networks, heterogeneous 5G networks, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) frameworks to propose the diverse range of features of reliability, flexibility, security, privacy, trust in ubiquitous clouds, and communication networks. Furthermore, this special issue also examines the significant network theories, formulates significant communication applications, and devises innovative methods to overcome the significant challenges that this research area poses.

Ubiquitous Computing in Precision Agriculture: A Systematic Review

The applications of ubiquitous computing have increased in recent years, especially due to the development of technologies such as mobile computing and its integration with the real world. One of the challenges in this area is the use of context sensitivity. In agriculture, this can be considered as the context related to the environment, such as the chemical and physical aspects that characterize the different soil types. This scenario periodically changes due to factors such as climate, type of cultivar and soil management technique used, among other aspects. This article presents a systematic review on the research works that explore ubiquitous computing in precision agriculture, including which technologies are being currently applied and which gap scan still be researched. Nine scientific repositories were explored to find articles about precision agriculture and ubiquitous computing. As a result of this search and filtering process, 32 works were reviewed, analyzed and categorized between the years of 2009 and 2019. In general, the reviewed articles concentrate on problems arising from the communication between sensors and the management of context-sensitive data.

Ubiquitous Computing in Precision Agriculture: A Systematic Review

The applications of ubiquitous computing have increased in recent years, especially due to the development of technologies such as mobile computing and its integration with the real world. One of the challenges in this area is the use of context sensitivity. In agriculture, this can be considered as the context related to the environment, such as the chemical and physical aspects that characterize the different soil types. This scenario periodically changes due to factors such as climate, type of cultivar and soil management technique used, among other aspects. This article presents a systematic review on the research works that explore ubiquitous computing in precision agriculture, including which technologies are being currently applied and which gap scan still be researched. Nine scientific repositories were explored to find articles about precision agriculture and ubiquitous computing. As a result of this search and filtering process, 32 works were reviewed, analyzed and categorized between the years of 2009 and 2019. In general, the reviewed articles concentrate on problems arising from the communication between sensors and the management of context-sensitive data.

Energy Management for Smart Homes—State of the Art

Smart home is a concept that aims to enhance the comfort of residents and facilitate household activities. The smart home is an application of ubiquitous computing which can provide the user with context-aware automated or assistive services in the form of ambient intelligence, remote control of home appliances, or automation. Smart homes attempt to integrate smartness into homes to guarantee the residents’ convenience, safety, and security, while conserving the energy. The capabilities of a smart home in the context of different applications, have been scrutinized for this investigation. Different proposed architectures, protocols, and infrastructures have been taken into consideration. As the data management process is a vital part of a smart home system, many procedures of data collection, storage, and analysis have been surveyed. Methods of data acquisition has also been discussed. Existing challenges, pros, and cons of proposed schemes along with future perspectives of smart homes are identified in this report, which is intended to promote future research directions.

LiveTag

Information about the objects a person touches is an essential input to many applications in ubiquitous computing. The ability to sense touch in the physical world can form the basis of the tangible user interface [1], which allows humans to use omnipresent objects as a command-and-control interface to the digital world. On the other hand, the sequence of objects used can enable inference of human activities. Post-processing of this information can support many activity-aware applications, such as stroke rehabilitation assessment in homes, consumer analytics for retail stores, etc.

A Novel 2D Urban Map Search Framework Based on Attributed Graph Matching

Our proposed sketch-based search and retrieval system in map databases shows the promise that intuitive search can be possible even when searching in nonannotated conventional map data. We plan to perform further work in this area to allow for more intuitive and semantic queries, applications for mobile and ubiquitous computing, and integration to existing map searching applications.

A model for natural human-computer interaction based on semiotic triangle

In the development and application of cognitive science and ubiquitous computing, the method of building and evaluating a natural user interface has become increasingly important. In this paper, based on the definition of natural human-computer interaction, we highlight the necessity of the use of natural language between user and computers and its comprehension. Moreover, based on the semiotic triangle model of linguistics, we propose a model for natural human-computer interaction. The model can provide an explanation of how information is transmitted between the user and computers and understood. Finally, we present an approach for evaluating the user interface based on interaction naturalness, continuity, and learnability.

Disruptive data visualization towards zero-defects diagnostics

Innovative processes become available due to the high processing capacity of emergent infrastructures, such as cloud and ubiquitous computing and organizational infrastructures and applications. However, these intense computation processes are difficult to follow, where co-decision is required, for which the existence of disruptive visualization and collaboration tools that offer a visual tracing capacity with integrated decision supporting tools, are critical for its sustainable success.This project proposes: a) a set of immersive and disruptive visualization tools, supported by virtual and augmented reality, that enables a global perspective of any production agents; b) a data analytics tool to complement and assist the decision making; c) a resource federated network that allows the brokering and interaction between all existing resources; and d) a dynamic context-aware dashboard, to improve the overall productive process and contribute to intelligent manufacturing systems.The application domain addressed is Zero-Defects Diagnostics in manufacturing as well as in Industry 4.0 in general.

Security Issues in Ubiquitous Computing: A Literature Review

Ubiquitous computing is a concept where computing is made to appear everywhere using any device, in an in any location and in any format. In this paper we have discussed the properties and applications of Ubiquitous Computing. We have also discussed some of the security challenges for Ubiquitous Computing and various security attacks on Ubiquitous Computing Networks.

ISA 2016 workshop report

The series of ISA workshops started in 2009 to exchange original and cutting-edge research dedicated to indoor spatial awareness. As spatial information technologies and applications grow beyond their traditional boundaries, research on indoor space is increasingly attracting attention from academia and industry. Location Based Services, Geographic Information Systems, and Ubiquitous Computing Applications are all extending their coverage from outdoor to indoor spaces. Indoor space differs from outdoor space in several important aspects, including layout, topology, constraints, and so forth. High-quality research is required to create new theories and to acquire fresh experiences that can be applied to building integrated, seamless systems across spatial boundaries. This workshop is intended to bring together researchers, developers, and practitioners who work on different topics of indoor spatial awareness and to provide a forum for inspiring interdisciplinary discussions in all relevant aspects.

Software Defined Millimeter Wave 5th Generation Communications System

A row column Diagonal (RCD) based data security method has been disused here for software defined millimeter wave (SDMW) based 5th generation (5G) millimeter wave (MW) communication system. The RCD based security method in this research paper discusses encryption and decryption technique for 5G SDMW based cloud computing environment (CCE) and fog computing environment (FCE). The Fog computing is an emerging technology trend and complementing along with Cloud computing. Fog Computing along with Cloud computing considers various emerging applications of ubiquitous computing, Internet of Flying-Things (IoT) and 5G millimeter wave (MW) communication system. FCE also provides data storage for user and groups at personal and professional level along with the application services. In this paper we are discussing, data security need and demand for Fog computing and Cloud computing. RCD based encryption and decryption module is very secure and useful. This proposed security method is easy to develop and integrate in SDMW based 5G millimeter wave (MWe) communications system. This research is promising high quality security for the 5G MW communications system to provide efficient and optimum security.

3D network-on-chip design for embedded ubiquitous computing systems

A novel 3D NoC topology for embedded ubiquitous computing is proposed.A minimal routing algorithm with path diversity in the 3D NoC Topology is used.A power efficient architecture design for NoC-based embedded ubiquitous computing is introduced. Ubiquitous High-Performance Computing applications, such as cyber-physical systems, sensor networks and virtual reality require the support of terascale embedded systems that can deliver higher performance than current systems. Multi-cores, many-cores and heterogeneous processors are becoming the typical design choices to satisfy these requirements. Inter core communication has been one of the major challenges as it affects the bandwidth and power consumption of the multi-cores processors. Network-on-Chips (NoCs) present a fast and scalable interconnection solution to fulfill the requirements of Ubiquitous High-Performance Computing applications. This paper proposes a novel 3D Network-on-Chip called Octagon for Ubiquitous Computing (OUC) that is designed for Embedded Ubiquitous Computing Systems. OUC provides low network diameter and path diversity. Simulation results show that the proposed topology achieves a significant decrease in latency and an average 21.54% and 12.89% improvement in average throughput under hotspot and uniform traffic pattern respectively.

Towards disappearing user interfaces for ubiquitous computing: human enhancement from sixth sense to super senses

The enhancement of human senses electronically is possible when pervasive computers interact unnoticeably with humans in ubiquitous computing. The design of computer user interfaces towards “disappearing” forces the interaction with humans using a content rather than a menu driven approach, thus the emerging requirement for huge number of non-technical users interfacing intuitively with billions of computers in the Internet of Things is met. Learning to use particular applications in ubiquitous computing is either too slow or sometimes impossible so the design of user interfaces must be naturally enough to facilitate intuitive human behaviours. Although humans from different racial, cultural and ethnic backgrounds own the same physiological sensory system, the perception to the same stimuli outside the human bodies can be different. A novel taxonomy for disappearing user interfaces (DUIs) to stimulate human senses and to capture human responses is proposed. Furthermore, applications of DUIs are reviewed. DUIs with sensor and data fusion to simulate the sixth sense is explored. Enhancement of human senses through DUIs and context awareness is discussed as the groundwork enabling smarter wearable devices for interfacing with human emotional memories.

A SURVEY ON UBIQUITOUS COMPUTING

This work presents a survey of ubiquitous computing research which is the emerging domain that implements communication technologies into day-to-day life activities. This research paper provides a classification of the research areas on the ubiquitous computing paradigm. In this paper, we present common architecture principles of ubiquitous systems and analyze important aspects in context-aware ubiquitous systems. In addition, this research work presents a novel architecture of ubiquitous computing system and a survey of sensors needed for applications in ubiquitous computing. The goals of this research work are three-fold: i) serve as a guideline for researchers who are new to ubiquitous computing and want to contribute to this research area, ii) provide a novel system architecture for ubiquitous computing system, and iii) provides further research directions required into quality-of-service assurance of ubiquitous computing.

Towards an Affordable Real-Time Cardiovascular Emergency Detection and Response System

ardiovascular diseases are always accompanied with critical symptoms that can cause sudden death. Those symptoms may not be recognized by most of humans. So it could be too late when those symptoms are recognized and assigned to medical help. Pervasive health care systems can solve this dilemma by continuous monitoring of suspected patients. Pervasive health care is used to shift the already established, hospital based, centralized health care system to another ubiquitous, user- centered, and mobile system as an overall preventive health management system. Pervasive health care is expected to have a strong impact on quality and efficiency of health care domain as well as a strong impact on patients' quality of life. Because of its ubiquitous, autonomous nature, it also helps to increase independency and emergency prevention. This paper presents an overview of recently published technical researches regarding the pervasive health care as an application of ubiquitous computing. As well as introducing the authors' new model and prototype for a new proposed system of an affordable real time emergency detection and response of critical heart conditions Aff-HRM that is especially designed for financially not-capable cardio patients.

Creating a Just-in-time Location-aware Service Using Fuzzy Logic

A fuzzy just-in-time (JIT) ubiquitous service networked system is established in this study. This system is an innovative application of mobile commerce, ubiquitous computing, and ambient intelligence. The intended user is a traveler who must decide on the best service location along the planned route; the system arranges the service when the user demands it, so that when the user arrives at the service location the required service is ready. This system applies the “just-in-time” concept to mobile commerce, ubiquitous computing, and ambient intelligence. This innovation has great potential for providing better services in these fields. The issue of how to determine the JIT service location and path in a ubiquitous service network is critical; however, because data about the user’s position is inaccurate, the task is difficult. To tackle this difficulty, a FINLP model is formulated, and a fuzzy version of Dijkstra’s algorithm is proposed. A test system has been established to evaluate the feasibility of the proposed methodology. Based on the experimental results, the proposed JIT ubiquitous service networked system was able to reduce the user’s average waiting time by 74%.

An Efficient Construction of Convertible Undeniable Proxy Signatures

In the undeniable signatures, the validity or invalidity can only be verified via the Confirmation/Disavowal protocol with the help of the signer. Convertible undeniable signatures provide the flexibility that a signer can convert an undeniable signatures into publicly verifiable one. A proxy signature scheme allows an entity to delegate his/her signing capability to another entity in such a way that the latter can sign messages on behalf of the former when the former is not available. Proxy signatures have found numerous practical applications in ubiquitous computing, distributed systems, mobile agent applications, etc. In this paper, we propose the first convertible undeniable proxy signature scheme with rigorously proven security. The properties Unforgeability, Invisibility and Soundness in the context of convertible undeniable proxy signatures are also clearly defined. The security of our construction is formally proven in the random oracle models, based on some natural complexity assumptions.

Missing Values and Optimal Selection of an Imputation Method and Classification Algorithm to Improve the Accuracy of Ubiquitous Computing Applications

In a ubiquitous environment, high-accuracy data analysis is essential because it affects real-world decision-making. However, in the real world, user-related data from information systems are often missing due to users’ concerns about privacy or lack of obligation to provide complete data. This data incompleteness can impair the accuracy of data analysis using classification algorithms, which can degrade the value of the data. Many studies have attempted to overcome these data incompleteness issues and to improve the quality of data analysis using classification algorithms. The performance of classification algorithms may be affected by the characteristics and patterns of the missing data, such as the ratio of missing data to complete data. We perform a concrete causal analysis of differences in performance of classification algorithms based on various factors. The characteristics of missing values, datasets, and imputation methods are examined. We also propose imputation and classification algorithms appropriate to different datasets and circumstances.

COMPUTAÇÃO UBÍQUA: ESTADO DA ARTE E OPORTUNIDADES DE PESQUISA PARA A ÁREA DE NEGÓCIOS

Ubiquitous computing refers to the third wave of computing, an emerging theme in scientific research, which has interdisciplinary characteristics. The objective of this study is to map the field of research in ubiquitous computing, especially to explore the research focusing on ubiquitous computing applied to the organizational context and business, identifying opportunities for future research. The data presented here result of an analysis of academic references (2,165 articles) in the database Web of Science (WoS). We used the WoS analytical tools and content analysis of the titles and abstracts of the articles, and/or full articles analysis when they were available. The results of analysis indicate that scientific research on ubiquitous computing had its development especially since the last decade, since then being strongly linked to the areas of Computer Science, Telecommunications and Engineering, still rare are the studies that relate it to management and businesses. In this sense, knowledge gaps were identified during the construction of this article, leading to a proposed agenda for future research that may expand the understanding, with an organizational perspective, of the applications of ubiquitous computing.