Researcher Mo Haghighi from Bristol University will introduce us to multidisciplinary smart house project SPHERE 

The UK is the most obese nation in Europe.  Our ageing population is especially at risk from isolation, depression, strokes and fractures caused by falls in the home. With a rapidly ageing population - could technology be the answer to some of these problems?

SPHERE is developing a number of different sensors that will combine to build a picture of how we live in our homes. This information can then be used to spot issues that might indicate a medical or well-being issue.

The system will be general-purpose, low-cost and accessible.  Sensors will be entirely passive, requiring no action by the user and suitable for all patients, including the most vulnerable.  An example of SPHERE’s home sensor system could be to detect an overnight stroke or mini-stroke on waking, by detecting small changes in behaviour, expression and gait.  It could also monitor a patient’s compliance with their prescribed drugs. 

SPHERE will work with clinicians, engineers, designers and social care professionals as well as members of the public to develop these sensor technologies. 

We want to make sure the technology is:

• Acceptable in people's homes

• Solves real healthcare problems in a cost effective way

• The project generates knowledge that will change clinical practice 

SPHERE, with a total of £15m grant, is an interdisciplinary research collaboration (IRC) led by the University of Bristol will work in partnership with Bristol City Council, IBM, Toshiba and Knowle West Media Centre (KWMC).

Join us to discuss the potentials and pitfalls of transforming our domestic environments in this way.

This Lunchtime Talk is part of Open Studio Friday, which takes place at the Studio every week.

Do you want to find out what is going on at the Pervasive Media Studio? Are you interested in meeting our residents, talking about a specific project or curious about pervasive media? Why not pack a sandwich and join us for one of our Lunchtime Talks and Open Studio Friday.

Lunchtime Talks are informal presentations by Studio residents and associates. They normally take place at 1pm on Friday, are free and open to everybody who’s interested in what we do.

After the Talk, we also invite you to stay with us for the afternoon to continue the conversation or work on your own projects. We provide chairs, tables, wireless and a great space. You bring what you need to work with (laptop/mobile). Our open afternoons close at 5pm.

Let us know if you’d like a tour of the space and we'll be happy to show you around. Send an email to admin@pmstudio.co.uk