Ambient intelligence - industrial research on a visionary concept

In this presentation, applications are discussed that describe achievements along the road towards 'ambient intelligence'. Appliances and devices disappear into the environment of the individual; instead services come into focus. Key to this development are systems solutions that lead to a significant improvement of the human-machine interface. Along this line, we present important technologies and key system components. They range from technologies for packaging and gathering of ambient energy, to system demonstrators such as low-cost electronic systems, ubiquitous sensor networks and electronics in smart textiles. The prime importance of the electric power supply and of low-power consumption, especially in the peripheral devices, is emphasized.