Understanding Pervasive Computing

Overview of the Lecture

• The lecture covers the definition of computing, an introduction to pervasive computing, its goals, examples, benefits, and limitations.

Defining Computing

• Computing involves using computers to manage, process, and communicate information.
• It is the process of using computer technology to complete a goal-oriented task.
• Traditional desktop computing involves using a PC or laptop to run applications or software for specific functions.
• Computing includes the development of software and hardware systems for structuring, processing, and managing information.
• It also includes creating intelligent systems and utilizing different media for entertainment and communication.

Understanding Pervasive Computing

• Pervasive computing, also known as ubiquitous computing, involves embedding microprocessors into everyday objects.
• This allows objects to process data, communicate information, and interact with other devices.
• Pervasive computing makes everyday objects "SMART" by giving them computing capabilities for automation and integration into digital environments.
• Computing becomes accessible anytime, anywhere, without requiring direct user interaction.
• It represents a shift from traditional computing.
• A microprocessor, the CPU, is contained within a single integrated circuit chip.
• Pervasive computing devices are completely connected and always available.
• It relies on wireless technologies, advanced electronics, and the internet.
• It means technology/computing "exists everywhere" and is "invisible," processing in the background.
• Unlike traditional computing, devices are accessible anytime and anywhere, not limited to a specific geographic location.

Goals of Pervasive Computing

• Pervasive computing goes beyond personal computers, integrating technology seamlessly into everyday objects and environments.
• Technology becomes invisible and accessible anytime, anywhere, via interconnected devices across different networks like the Internet and Bluetooth.
• Pervasive computing allows continuous interaction between devices and automates goal-oriented tasks without direct human involvement.
• Unlike manual usage of desktop PCs, tasks are executed without human interaction in a particular geographic location.
• Chips can be embedded in almost any device (clothing, appliances, homes, or even the human body) to connect them to a network and create smart devices.
• Smart devices interact and communicate with other devices with minimal manual human intervention, marking a deviation from traditional computing.
• Goal connects computing technologies with wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), voice recognition, Internet capability, and AI to seamlessly connect devices, making them always available.

Examples of Pervasive Computing

• Contactless payments use smartcards with chips to communicate with contactless readers like EFT-POS terminals.
• The major advantage is avoiding unnecessary contact.
• During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, contact tracing emerged as a pervasive computing technology.
• Devices use Bluetooth to communicate, sharing random codes.
• If a person is infected with Covid-19, that information is sent to a server.
• The server broadcasts this information to the devices of those who were in contact with the infected person.
• In smart homes, devices communicate with each other through Wi-Fi to automate tasks.
• Smart home examples include automated lights & curtains, and remotely controlled central AC.
• Smart homes can also include video intercoms, safeguard systems, and central heating.

Benefits of Pervasive Computing

• Pervasive computing enables quick and effortless access to critical information and manages information easily.
• It provides invisible technology where computers and devices are seamlessly built into the smart environment.
• Invisible technology works quietly without much user interaction, performing tasks automatically and efficiently.
• Interconnected smart devices automate everyday tasks, eliminating mundane tasks and saving time/effort, allowing users to focus on more meaningful activities.
• Smart environments provide useful information and real-time insights for better decision-making.
• It simplifies new technologies, making them easier to interact with.
• Pervasive computing integrates into the environment and everyday objects, creating smart devices with touchless interaction like AI assistants and voice commands.
• It eliminates the need to manually operate complex systems.
• People can quickly access important information from networks anytime, anywhere, enabling faster decision-making and more efficient task completion.

Limitations of Pervasive Computing

• Security is a major concern.
• Broken connections are a limitation.
• Slow connections can be a limitation.
• High operating costs can pose a challenge.

Summary

• Seamless integration means technology operates invisibly in the background, providing information or performing tasks without users noticing or requiring direct interaction.
• Embedded technology means computers are built into everyday objects like appliances, clothing, and furniture.
• Context awareness means devices detect and respond to their surroundings, including location, time, and user activity.
• Connectivity means devices communicate with each other through wireless networks for smooth operation.
• One benefit of pervasive computing is its ability to handle manual, mundane, and repetitive tasks, allowing people to focus on more important aspects of their personal lives.
• Benefits in the workplace included boosting productivity across various fields, including healthcare, by enabling faster decision-making and efficient resource management.
• In smart homes, pervasive computing automates tasks such as: lighting/climate control (adjusting brightness/temperature), security monitoring (detecting motion, unlocking doors, and sending alerts).
• In healthcare, pervasive computing enhances efficiency through wearable health monitoring (tracking heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep patterns) and smart medication reminders.
• Healthcare is also aided by AI-powered diagnostics and alerts that instantly analyze medical data, notifying doctors and reducing time spent on routine examinations.
• By eliminating the need for manual input, pervasive computing saves time, enhances convenience, and boosts productivity in both personal life and the workplace, making daily activities smoother and more efficient.

Differences Between Traditional and Pervasive Computing

• Traditional computing uses specific devices like desktops and laptops, while pervasive computing is embedded in everyday objects like appliances, wearables, and smart homes.
• Traditional computing requires direct user input, while pervasive computing works automatically with minimal or no direct user input.
• Traditional computing is limited to a specific location, while pervasive computing is accessible anywhere, anytime through smart, connected devices.
• Traditional computing devices operate independently with limited networking, while pervasive computing devices are interconnected via the internet or local networks.
• Tasks in traditional computing are performed manually by users, while pervasive computing automates tasks based on user behavior and context.
• Traditional computing devices are separate and noticeable/visible, while pervasive computing is embedded in the environment and often invisible to users.