Three main tools will be used: an activity monitoring device, a feedback and support application framework and an innovative environmental circadian empowering system module, which includes the design of a lighting device, a wireless sensor network and actuators to regulate the environment. The feedback and support application framework is not only the platform that communicates with the user, but it is also responsible for managing the information gathered by the sensors and controlling the different devices to adjust the environmental conditions to the person’s needs.
Two main use cases will be addressed, that involve two groups of shift workers in the project: professionals from healthcare (UNIFE) and infrastructure (PT). In this project, the end-user organisations accumulate the role of technical partners, which provides a truly participatory approach to the design and development of the solution.
Objectives
The main goal of the Clockwork project is to create a healthy and comfortable environment by supporting middle-aged to older adults in the improvement of their circadian rhythms. Particularly, the solution will target shift workers, such as healthcare professionals, who are greatly affected by chronodisruption, which can lead to health issues, long absences or early retirement. The objective will be achieved through the enhancement of external synchronisers that will help users maintain a healthy day and night rhythm by introducing some imperceptible modifications in their environment.
Expected results and impact
- Identification of relevant chronodisruptors and parameters involved in their monitoring.
- Portable Zeitgeber device.
- Processing algorithms, including decision engine for various modes, signal processing and rule engine for situation interpretation.
- Electronic hardware, incorporating signal processing and AI engines.
- Intelligent, auto-regulated lighting device.
Partners
Partners involved in the Clockwork project
- Project name: Smart system for the management and control of shift workers’ circadian rhythms
- Website: www.clockworkproject.eu
- Coordinator: Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS
- Duration: 36 Months
- Starting Date: 02.06.2014
- Total budget: € 1.643.367,97
- Public contribution: € 959.171,00
Contact
Maximiliano Romero
E.: Maximiliano.romero@fraunhofer.it
T.: 00351 220 430 340
