Research

Applications

Innovative applications will be highlighted in the Center's research and development agenda. Biometric sensors and devices embedded into everyday items can customize features to provide increased comfort and convenience. Sensors embedded in family automobiles can identify the driver and automatically adjust the mirrors, radio settings, seat positions, and climate controls. Sensors embedded in handheld PDAs and cell phones can authenticate users and customize settings accordingly. Surveillance cameras equipped with advanced face recognition technologies that can account for aging, weight gain or loss, and other changes can help detect missing people or suspects. Biometric technologies such as gesture recognition can lead to improved Assistive Technologies. For example, facial expressions of quadriplegic patients can be recognized and interpreted as commands to enable them to control their environment by adjusting the thermostat or other appliances.

Sensor arrays exist for the simultaneous detection of multiple chemicals.