FutureHAUS Prominent in University’s Focus on Intelligent Infrastructure
June 15, 2016
The FutureHAUS project, led by Prof. Joe Wheeler, will feature prominently in Virginia Tech’s efforts in the area of intelligent infrastructure. Developed in collaboration with the College of Engineering’s Department of Computer Science, the FutureHAUS is composed of digitally-connected, modular units, produced using industrialized processes to create high-density, high-performance, responsive, dwellings.
Embedded in the house is sensor and control technology capable of monitoring activity, learning user needs and responding to changing conditions. Residents interact with the house through traditional and non-traditional user interfaces such as voice recognition, touch control, gesture control, and proximity and motion detection. The multi-modal interface technology makes it easier to perform daily tasks, increasing comfort levels and supporting the goal to provide a more enjoyable and sustainable lifestyle.
“Intelligent Infrastructure for Human-Centered Communities” is one of five initial planned Destination Areas of strategic, interdisciplinary focus at Virginia Tech. A proposed new Intelligent Infrastructure Building will contain labs, interdisciplinary spaces, and a dining hall, all of which will bring together students from numerous programs related to the destination area.