Emerging Technologies and AI Applications

Monitoring and Control

• A monitoring system observes through sensors, such as a burglar alarm.
• A control system uses actuators to control a process, such as a washing machine.
• A monitoring and control system combines both functions, using sensors to observe and actuators to control, such as in agricultural applications.

Sensors

• A sensor is a device that detects physical signals, such as temperature, motion, touch, light, pressure, proximity, or smoke.
• Types of sensors include:
  • Temperature sensors
  • Motion sensors
  • Touch sensors
  • Light sensors
  • Pressure sensors
  • Proximity sensors
  • Smoke sensors

Artificial Intelligence

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that focuses on creating machines that perform tasks that require human intelligence.
• Features of AI include:
  • Data collection: vast amounts of data used as input
  • Programmed rules: rules and algorithms of performance
  • Ability to reason: ability to reason and draw logical conclusions
  • Ability to learn: learn from collected data and feedback
• Applications of AI include:
  • Computer-assisted translation: text, voice, and video
  • Speech recognition: converting voice to text
  • Neural networks: recognizing patterns in pixels
  • Image recognition: identifying and interpreting patterns
  • Virtual personal assistant: simulating conversations
  • Text generation: generating text, such as ChatGPT
  • Gaming: improving visual quality
  • Weather Forecasting: analyzing large amounts of data for detailed forecasting
  • Machine learning in genomics: classifying DNA sequences
  • Computer-assisted diagnosis: using imaging, algorithms, and machine learning models to diagnose diseases

Emerging Technologies

• Virtual Reality (VR) and Mixed Reality (MR): computer-simulated reality that allows user interaction
• Augmented Reality (AR): computer-generated content that enhances the real world
• HoloLens technology: transparent display computers
• Cloud Computing: accessing data and information from different locations
• Internet of Things (IoT): connecting devices to the internet, such as home appliances
• Mobile Payment: using Near-Field Communication (NFC)
• Blockchain: securely transferring information
• Cryptocurrency: digital or virtual currency
• Telehealth: delivering health services and information remotely
• Assistive technology: helping people with disabilities achieve a better quality of life, such as screen readers and speech generation
• Biometrics: verifying a person's identity, such as through fingerprints or passports
• High-speed cellular communication: 5G, a key component of IoT
• Data Storage: using Solid State Storage (SSD), optical, and holographic storage
• Quantum computing: using qubits instead of bits

Environment and Health

• Consumers: seeking new technology, but contributing to electronic waste
• Manufacturers: making repairs difficult or not supporting old versions
• E-waste: digital devices containing toxic materials
• Waste-to-Energy: converting non-recyclable materials into energy
• E-waste Management: reducing, reusing, and recycling
• 3D Printing: creating prototypes to reduce waste, power consumption, and cost
• Bio-printing: creating biological structures using 3D printing
• Health Issues:
  • Computer Vision Syndrome: eye dryness and blurred vision from screen reading
  • Social alienation: excessive computer usage leading to depression, anxiety, and despair
  • Posture-related injuries: muscle and joint pain from long-term computer usage
  • Psychological effects: increased risk of depression and insomnia from prolonged screen time
• Proper use of smartphones and tablets: holding devices at a comfortable height and avoiding screen time at night.