EPCiR

The ICT architecture for future applications based on a pervasive computing platform is not well defined, and there is a need for an architectural analysis that takes openness into account. A variant of Quality Attribute Workshops was used in EPCiR to establish requirements for the architecture based on architectural qualities. From the analysis, a suitable pervasive computing platform architecture was identified as shown in Figure 1.

Technology

The primary criteria for selection of components in the pervasive computing architecture are accessibility and usability criteria. The criteria include interaction, functionality, flexibility and security, which again points to having a generic device that collect data from the heterogeneous devices and communicate these data to the outside world. This construct is normally referred to as a (residential) gateway. Furthermore, with a view to the needs for of flexibility, the use of a standardized software platform on top of the gateways was decided. The Open Services Gateway Initiative (OSGi) defines such standard.A prototype of the pervasive computing infrastructure was developed for the home automation domain. The user interface is shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2: EPCiR user interfaces

A critical security analysis on the proposed architecture was performed using the Common Crietria method. All safety issues outside the home were disregarded because these could fairly easily be solved with standard technologies. Inside the home, the different devices was divided into 3 groups: 1) no security – apart from a simple ID (group covers mainly lighting), 2) medium security – symmetric cryptography in order to achieve good confidentiality and integrity (used for patient etc.), and 3) high security – asymmetric security, in addition to the aforementioned contribution of non-repudiation, and a “heartbeat” (used for alarms).

Finally, the project evaluated the technology in terms of business potential. The starting point for the business analysis was buildings and data communication between buildings and the outside world. The conclusion was that there are some external environmental factors, which in future will change the business systems into much more complex entities than we know today. At the same time they will deliver more value and content for both the home and the business markets.

In conclusion, the project recommended the use of a residential gateway to collect data from heterogeneous devices in the home or building based on the OSGi framework. A security analysis pointed to the need for more security research into security in distributed systems.

On the basis of defined external factors and value drivers, the EPCiR project shows that sustainable business cases can not be built without a business models that involve the Value Nets concept, i.e. values for customers arises largely when the service offered consists of several complementary service from different providers.

Expected Project Outcomes

The project delivered knowledge of pervasive computing platforms from three perspectives: usage, infrastructure and security. Also an assessment of the business potential of such platforms was undertaken. The platform was further developed in the eu-DOMAIN project.

In-JeT’s role in the project

In-JeT’s role in the EPCiR project was to contribute to architecture design as well as devleoping the user interaction side. Further, it was In-JeT’s role to define the business framework and develop sustainable ecosystems for pervasive compution solution.

Partners

1. TDC Totalløsninger A/S, Denmark (Coordinator)
2. Innovation Lab Katrinebjerg, Denmark
3. In-JeT ApS, Denmark
4. ISIS Katrinebjerg, Denmark
5. Center for It-Sikkerhed, Alexandra Instituttet (AICIS), Denmark
6. University of Aarhus, Dept. of Computer Science, Denmark

Funding

Co-funded by ISIS Katrinebjerg, Denmark.