This paper introduces booTable, an interactive coffee table prototype constructed by recycled paper aiming to build upon the paradigm of surface computing, but endeavoring to overcome a number of identified limitations of current design practice. In this respect, the paper first runs through the design requirements, decisions and rationale towards creating a first version of the prototype. Then, the outcomes of the prototyping process are described, along with the results of an informal assessment session and related critique. Following that, the revisions made towards the development of a second version of the prototype are laid out and the final result is presented.

In this paper, the application of computer vision techniques to the localization of multiple persons in a relatively wide gaming terrain is presented. Multiple views are employed both for terrain coverage, but most importantly, for treatment of occlusions. Through the appropriate selection of lightweight operations and acceleration strategies, an adequate frame rate is achieved despite the large volume of input data. The resulting system is employed in the development of multiplayer entertainment applications, which are demonstrated and evaluated.

We present the development of a multi-touch display based on computer vision techniques. The developed system is built upon low cost, off-the-shelf hardware components and a careful selection of computer vision techniques. The resulting system is capable of detecting and tracking several objects that may move freely on the surface of a wide projection screen. It also provides additional information regarding the detected and tracked objects, such as their orientation, their full contour, etc. All of the above are achieved robustly, in real time and regardless of the visual appearance of what may be independently projected on the projection screen. We also present indicative results from the exploitation of the developed system in three application scenarios and discuss directions for further research.

This paper introduces the horizontal, interdisciplinary, crossthematic RTD Programme in the field of Ambient Intelligence which has recently been initiated by the Institute of Computer Science of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas, aiming to contribute towards the creation and provision of pioneering human-centric AmI technologies and smart environments.

Ambient Intelligence is an emerging research field that aims to make many of the everyday activities of people easier and more efficient. This new paradigm gives rise to opportunities for novel, more efficient interactions with computing systems. At a technical level, the vision of Ambient Intelligence is realized by the seamless confluence of diverse computing platforms. In this context, a software framework (middleware) is essential to enable heterogeneous computing systems to interoperate. In this paper we first consider the basic requirements of a middleware that can effectively support the construction of Ambient Intelligence environments. Subsequently, we present a brief survey of existing, general-purpose middleware systems and evaluate them in terms of their suitability for serving as the low-level communication platform of an Ambient Intelligence middleware. Finally, we argue that an Object-Oriented middleware such as the Common Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) is most suited for basing a middleware for Ambient Intelligence environments.

This paper presents the process and tangible outcomes of a rapid prototyping activity towards the creation of a demonstrator, showcasing the potential use and effect of Ambient Intelligence technologies in a typical office environment. In this context, the hardware and software components used are described, as well as the interactive behavior of the demonstrator. Additionally, some conclusions stemming from the experience gained are presented, along with pointers for future research and development work.