A convergence of technologies in machine learning and pervasive computing has generated interest in the development of smart environments to emerge and assist with valuable functions such as remote health monitoring and intervention. The need for such technology is underscored by an aging population, the cost of health care, and the importance individuals place on remaining independent in their ow
n homes for as long as possible. From these revelations, in 2007 the Center for Advanced Studies in Adaptive Systems (CASAS) at Washington State University in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science was established. With Diane Cook, Ph.D., a Huie-Rogers Chair at the helm, CASAS serves to meet research needs around testing of the technologies using real data through the use of a smart homes environment located on the WSU Pullman campus. CASAS also works in partnership with the IGERT program providing integrated training in computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, psychology, sociology and health care in support of the design of smart environments and technological toolsets. The CASAS project treats environments as intelligent agents, where the status of the residents and their physical surroundings are perceived using sensors and the environment is acted upon using controllers in a way that improves the comfort, safety, and/or productivity of the residents. Research groups utilize CASAS datasets for use in their own research – creating a collaborate approach and improving technology evolution. Entering its 7th year at WSU, CASAS is poised to further integrate Artificial Intelligence research, expand the depth and breadth of sharing smart environment data on an international scale, and launch its “Smart Home in a Box” technology with more than 60 institutions and scientists around the world through a grant from the National Science Foundation.
