Researchers of the University of Granada (UGR) and Telefónica I+D Design Rooms
  with Sensors That Help Dependent People
From: ACM TechNews - 09/11/2009

The University of Granada is funding a project led by Jose Carlos Segura Luna
that would help provide machine-assisted living for the disabled. Segura
Luna's team has constructed a model room with a computer system that can
track the movements of the person inside it. The system uses ceiling sensors,
a receiver that moves throughout the room, and a computer that analyzes the
information sent from both. The room can automatically brake a wheelchair
when it nears the stairs and open doors when it approaches them. Researchers
plan to expand the system to encompass open spaces and entire buildings with
the help of more sophisticated communication technologies, such as global
positioning systems. They also plan to use a program based on ultrasound for
when the system needs to know the inhabitant's exact position. Researchers
hope to successfully combine different kinds of technologies, although the
nature of that collaboration will depend on the needs of the inhabitant. If
researchers meet their goal of integrating a wireless device with a location
system, for example, they will avoid a lengthy system installation and cut
down on the number of electronic devices needed. The team's prototype is
currently being tested in a hospital in Rome. 

Read the entire article at:
http://www.andaluciainvestiga.com/english/salaPrensa/notas/090910-02.asp

Link:
Jose Carlos Segura Luna
http://sirio.ugr.es/segura/