Context recognition using capacitive sensor arrays in beds

Abstract:
An integral part of intelligent environments is the analysis of the current state of the user in the environment, the so-called context. This can include simple information like the current position but also more specific information like pulse rate or mood. The processing and analysis of this context does allow the implementation of AAL scenarios for user support. They can be applied more specifically and individualized if a precise and reliable context is determined. This work presents a system that uses capacitive sensor arrays installed in beds to determine occupation and positioning of a user to provide an AAL system with a fine-granular context that can be used for highly specific applications. Furthermore in the scope of this work an evaluation on the precision and reliability of the system was performed.