ICT4QoL

The primary goal of the research program is to explore the possibilities of using information and communication technologies (ICT) in providing individuals and society as a whole better quality of life (QoL). In this context, the research will take place in the entire vertical sector, from the optimization of electronic circuits (wearable sensors, embedded systems) and reliable transmission paths (fiber optics, wireless transmission) to the design of systems and services that directly or indirectly affect QoL. In the field of electronic circuits, we will focus on procedures for optimizing circuit topology and generating algorithms to reduce energy consumption and to extend the device’s autonomy. With the help of grammatical evolution, we will search for topologies of energy efficient circuits and algorithms. In automation of circuits and algorithms design, we will use deep neural networks. Reliable communication infrastructure is very important for the use of ICT in ensuring better QoL. The last meters of the transmission path to the user’s multifunctional terminal represent a bottleneck in efficiency. We will concentrate on reducing latency, increasing bandwidth, and reliability of transmission by modern solutions of convergence of radio and optical networks. We will research possibilities for additional integration of optical and microwave technologies. In addition to reliable transmission paths, reliable communication networks are needed to connect a number of sensors and actuators in the Internet of Things (IoT). We will focus on the research of the 5th generation (5G) communication networks that will be adapted to different vertical sectors, especially in the areas of digital health and emergency communications, as well as on the research of IoT technologies for support to operations and field interventions. Here cybersecurity and privacy are of paramount importance. Thus much of the research will be devoted to this goal. Additionally, we will develop distributed environments which will enable the creation of innovative products and services. With the use of ICT, we will extend the independency of the elderly, while the elements of social intelligence will reduce the burden of modern interconnectivity and enable widespread use of smart homes. Real-time biomechanical feedback, which employs wearable sensors for its operation, can help improving QoL in many areas of sport, recreation, and rehabilitation. In this regard appropriate and user-friendly human-machine interaction (HMI) is essential, therefore we will devote particular attention to it, especially in the field of innovative design of user interfaces for contemporary and the next generation of vehicles with semi-autonomous and autonomous features. All research will be carried out in cooperation with many partners in the academic sphere, industry and the public sector.