YDreams

About: YDreams is a based out in . It is known for research contribution in the topics: Electrochromism & Mobile computing. The organization has 53 authors who have published 55 publications receiving 1180 citations.

Inkjet printing of sol-gel synthesized hydrated tungsten oxide nanoparticles for flexible electrochromic devices.

Abstract: Tungsten oxide nanoparticles were synthesized via a sol-gel route using metallic tungsten as precursor, and were printed on a flexible electrode using inkjet printing in order to build solid-state electrochromic cells. Several spectroscopic techniques were used to characterize and compare tungsten oxide particles obtained from different origins. FTIR, Raman and X-ray diffraction spectroscopic measurements showed that the sol-gel synthesis described here produces nanoparticles mainly in an amorphous state with hexagonal crystalline domains and allowed the analysis of the hydration extent of those nanoparticles. The size was measured combining dynamic light scattering, sedimentation, and microscopic techniques (AFM), showing a consistent size of about 200 nm. The tungsten oxide nanoparticles were used to produce an ink formulation for application in inkjet printing. Solid-state electrochromic devices were assembled at room temperature, without sintering the tungsten oxide printed films, showing excellent contrast between on/off states. Electrochemical characterization of those films is described using cyclic voltammetry. The devices were then tested through spectroelectrochemistry by Visible/NIR absorption spectroscopy (400-2200 nm range), showing a dual spectroscopic response depending on the applied voltage. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of two different crystalline states in accordance with results obtained from the spectroscopic characterization of the nanoparticles. The electrochromic cells had a good cycling stability showing high reversibility and a cyclability up to more than 50,000 cycles with a degradation of 25%.

Various methods and apparatuses for achieving augmented reality

Abstract: Various apparatus and methods are described for a simulation and/or user interface environment. Image data and actual measured depth data of a real object from a real-world scene is acquired via one or more sensors. There is matching of the resolution of the image data and actual measured depth data as well as a linking formed between the image data and actual measured depth data for each pixel representing the real-world object in the scene. The actual measured depth data of the real-world object is processed to extract normal vector data to the surface of the real-world object. Occlusion, lighting, and any physics-based interaction effects are based on at least the image data and actual measured depth data.

New approaches to environmental monitoring: the use of ICT to explore volunteered geographic information

Abstract: Citizen participation in environmental monitoring is not a new idea. However, recent developments in information and communication technologies (ICT), such as the social web and the miniaturization of sensors, have created new opportunities to promote citizen participation in environmental monitoring. The analysis of existing citizen initiatives that use ICT tools, identified the need for a framework conceptualizing ways to increase the contribution of volunteered geographic data in environmental monitoring. Environmental Collaborative Monitoring Networks (ECMN) are proposed in this paper as a framework that combines the concepts of traditional environmental monitoring networks with the ideals of the open source movement. Such framework can guide the creation of fixed and mobile monitoring networks and is organized based on three building blocks: (1) Motivated Citizens; (2) Sensing Devices; and (3) Back-End Information Infrastructure. To illustrate the issues involved in the implementation of the building blocks of ECMN, the Senses@Watch project is presented, which explored the use of sensory data as a source of monitoring data.

Towards Empathic Virtual and Robotic Tutors

Abstract: Building on existing work on artificial tutors with human-like capabilities, we describe the EMOTE project approach to harnessing benefits of an artificial embodied tutor in a shared physical space. Embodied in robotic platforms or through virtual agents, EMOTE aims to capture some of the empathic and human elements characterising a traditional teacher. As such, empathy and engagement, abilities key to influencing student learning, are at the core of the EMOTE approach. We present non-verbal and adaptive dialogue challenges for such embodied tutors as a foundation for researchers investigating the potential for empathic tutors that will be accepted by students and teachers.

Context-triggered systems and methods for information and services

Abstract: A computer implemented method for providing location-based services using a mobile device is provided. A location of a mobile device is automatically determined. A user context is generated based at least on a user preference and the automatically determined location of the mobile device, wherein the user preference represents at least a content interest of a user. A request is made to a computer remote from the location of the mobile device for an available service relevant to the user context and compatible with a capability of the mobile device. The available service is executed using the mobile device.