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Caon Maurizio

Professeur HES ordinaire

Main skills

Professeur HES ordinaire

Phone: +41 26 429 67 44

Desktop: HEG 411

Haute école de gestion de Fribourg
Chemin du Musée 4, 1700 Fribourg, CH

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Ongoing

34match - Amélioration de l'accès aux cellules souches par la blockchain Innosuisse 34879.1 IP-SBM

Role: Co-applicant

Requérant(e)s: FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech

Financement: CTI; Cordsavings SA

Description du projet : Le projet consiste à utiliser la technologie blockchain pour diversifier et faciliter la collecte de cellules souches ombilicales. Afin d'atteindre la masse critique nécessaire au succès, l'accent sera mis sur la sécurité des wallets et l'accessibilité grand-public des interfaces.

Research team within HES-SO: Caon Maurizio, Abou Khaled Omar, Pasquier Bruno

Partenaires académiques: FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech; Ra&D

Durée du projet: 24.09.2019 - 30.04.2020

Statut: Ongoing

ROSAS - NPR II - P_CHS-CCMA

Role: Co-applicant

Financement: Promotion économique du canton de Fribourg - Proj; FR - EIA - Institut iSIS; FR - EIA - Institut SeSi; Ra&D; TPF trafic; CertX; Université de Fribourg

Description du projet : Dans un avenir proche, les véhicules automatisés vont jouer un rôle primordial dans la mobilité sur route, sur le rail et dans les airs. À ce jour, le cadre réglementaire pour l'utilisation de véhicules automatisés dans la circulation n'a pas encore été défini et les procédures de validation et d'homologation n'ont pas encore été établies, ni pour les voitures ni pour les trains. Ainsi aucune institution n'est actuellement en mesure de fournir des services de validation et d'homolo- gation pour l'exploitation des véhicules automatisés, ni en Suisse ni à l'étranger. Grâce aux nombreuses compétences disponibles dans la région, Fribourg a aujourd'hui une chance unique de se profiler dans ce secteur d'activité qui sera très porteur en termes d'innovation et d'emplois. Le projet NPR précédent (E_CHS-CCM A) a démontré la faisabilité et l'intérêt de créer une plateforme de compétences, qui rassemblerait le savoir et le savoir-faire en matière de mobilité autonome sur route et sur rail. Il a aussi déterminé le périmètre et les axes de développement d'un Centre de Compétence de Mobilité Automatisée (CCMA) et d'un Centre d'Homologation Suisse (CHS), qui seront les deux entités visibles de cette plateforme. Le présent projet a pour but de mettre en place les premières bases permettant le développement du CHS et du CCMA autour des questions du cadre juridique, de la simulation virtuelle des cas critiques, de la certification et l'homologation, ainsi que de la cybersécurité, des simulateurs de conduite routier et ferroviaire. Notre groupe de recherche possède l'avantage singulier d'intégrer les compétences juridiques (UNI-FR), entrepreneu- riales et organisationnelles (HEG), scientifiques, méthodologiques et technologiques (HEIA-FR + ROSAS), l'expertise pratique des transports publics régionaux (TPF), les compétences spécifiques du seul organisme suisse de certification en matière de sécurité/sûreté (CertX) ainsi que l'expertise de spécialistes en matière d'exploitation des systèmes sur rail et de cybersécurité (ROSAS). La rapidité de mise en 'uvre est un enjeu crucial de notre projet car aujourd'hui il y a véritablement une place à prendre au c'ur de l'Europe dans ce domaine de pointe. Le Centre de Compétence de Mobilité Automatisée et le Centre d'Ho- mologation Suisse pourraient ainsi devenir des atouts déterminants pour Fribourg, tant dans le domaine de l'innovation que dans celui de l'économie, tout en se positionnant sur le plan fédéral et international.

Research team within HES-SO: Caon Maurizio, Rossi Mathias, Rhême Sylvain, Marty Kilian, Bourquin Vincent, Thomet Mélanie, Panizza Claudio, Schenker Frédéric, Scherwey Roland, Pichon Laurent, Nahon Oliver, Berns Wolfgang, Truaisch Lucio, Rieder Samuel, Cippà Celso, Aka Nathalie, Python Gabriel, Heckel Christophe, Suter Jürg, Jenny Anja, Demierre Andéol, Amini Amin, Hendriks Jonathan James

Durée du projet: 21.08.2019 - 31.03.2020

Montant global du projet: 328'900 CHF

Statut: Ongoing

NESTORE COACH (SC1-PM-15-2017 H2020)

Role: Co-applicant

Requérant(e)s: Giuseppe Andreoni, Politecnico di Milano

Financement: EU SC1-PM-15-2017 H2020

Description du projet :

NESTORE (Novel Empowering Solutions and Technologies for Older people to Retain Everyday life activities) is a H2020 EU project funded under the SC1-PM15-2017 programme aimed at developing virtual coaches for older adults.

Research team within HES-SO: Angelini Leonardo, Mugellini Elena, Abou Khaled Omar, El Kamali Mira, Crausaz Didier, Carrino Francesco, Caon Maurizio

Partenaires académiques: Giuseppe Andreoni, Politecnico di Milano

Durée du projet: 01.09.2017 - 01.01.2021

Archivage des données: https://nestore-coach.eu/

Publications liées:

Statut: Ongoing

Completed

Personalised Guidance Services for Optimising lifestyle in teen-agers through awareness, motivation and engagement

Role: Collaborator

Requérant(e)s: FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech, Mugellini Elena, FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech

Financement: FP7

Description du projet : Obesity and other lifestyle-related illness are among the top healthcare challenges in Europe. Obesity alone accounts for up to 7% of healthcare costs in the EU, as well as wider economy costs associated with lower productivity, lost output and premature death. Obesity in younger age is an alarming predictor for obesity in adulthood, but also entails short term health complications in juvenile age along with greater risk of social and psychological problems. Knowing how to stay healthy is not enough to motivate individuals to adopt healthy lifestyles, but relevant progress can be achieved through the use of incentives delivered through a combination of processes and mobile technologies. Recognizing the effectiveness of this approach, the PEGASO project will develop a multi-dimensional cross-disciplinary ICT system that will exploit sophisticated game mechanics to motivate behavioral changes towards healthier lifestyles and prevent overweight and obesity in the younger population. The project relies on ICT technologies to implement a framework for the promotion of an health service based on three main features: individual&environmental monitoring, including wearable sensors, mobile phone and multimedia diaries for the acquisition of physical, physiological and behavioural attributes of participants; feedback to the user, presenting personalised healthy options for alternative lifestyles; social connectivity, encouraging involvement in social network experience sharing and social engagement. For the system development, a user centered approach, social and networked games and online education will be used. PEGASO will be tested with over 300 adolescents in three EU member states (Spain, Italy, UK). The development of PEGASO project will mobilize a wide stakeholders' ecosystem contributed by National Health Authorities and Research Institutions, Industries and Academia from the ICT and healthcare sectors, as well as food companies and SMEs

Research team within HES-SO: Caon Maurizio, Abou Khaled Omar, Carrino Stefano, Mugellini Elena, Crausaz Didier

Partenaires académiques: FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech; Mugellini Elena, FR - EIA - Institut HumanTech

Durée du projet: 16.01.2015 - 03.06.2019

Statut: Completed

2021

Conversational agents for health and well-being across the life course :

Scientifique ArODES

protocol for an evidence map

Guerreiro Mara Pereira, Angelini Leonardo, Henriques Helga Rafael, El Kamali Mira, Baixinho Cristina, Balsa João, Félix Brito Isa, Khaled Omar Abou, Carmo Maria Beatriz, Claudio Ana Paula, Caon Maurizio, Daher Karl, Alexandre Bruno, Padinha Mafalda, Mugellini Elena

JMIR Research Protocols, 2021, vol. 10, no. 9, article no. e26680

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background: Conversational agents, which we defined as computer programs that are designed to simulate two-way human conversation by using language and are potentially supplemented with nonlanguage modalities, offer promising avenues for health interventions for different populations across the life course. There is a lack of open-access and user-friendly resources for identifying research trends and gaps and pinpointing expertise across international centers. Objective: Our aim is to provide an overview of all relevant evidence on conversational agents for health and well-being across the life course. Specifically, our objectives are to identify, categorize, and synthesize—through visual formats and a searchable database—primary studies and reviews in this research field. Methods: An evidence map was selected as the type of literature review to be conducted, as it optimally corresponded to our aim. We systematically searched 8 databases (MEDLINE; CINAHL; Web of Science; Scopus; the Cochrane, ACM, IEEE, and Joanna Briggs Institute databases; and Google Scholar). We will perform backward citation searching on all included studies. The first stage of a double-stage screening procedure, which was based on abstracts and titles only, was conducted by using predetermined eligibility criteria for primary studies and reviews. An operational screening procedure was developed for streamlined and consistent screening across the team. Double data extraction will be performed with previously piloted data collection forms. We will appraise systematic reviews by using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2. Primary studies and reviews will be assessed separately in the analysis. Data will be synthesized through descriptive statistics, bivariate statistics, and subgroup analysis (if appropriate) and through high-level maps such as scatter and bubble charts. The development of the searchable database will be informed by the research questions and data extraction forms. Results: As of April 2021, the literature search in the eight databases was concluded, yielding a total of 16,351 records. The first stage of screening, which was based on abstracts and titles only, resulted in the selection of 1282 records of primary studies and 151 records of reviews. These will be subjected to second-stage screening. A glossary with operational definitions for supporting the study selection and data extraction stages was drafted. The anticipated completion date is October 2021. Conclusions: Our wider definition of a conversational agent and the broad scope of our evidence map will explicate trends and gaps in this field of research. Additionally, our evidence map and searchable database of studies will help researchers to avoid fragmented research efforts and wasteful redundancies. Finally, as part of the Harnessing the Power of Conversational e-Coaches for Health and Well-being Through Swiss-Portuguese Collaboration project, our work will also inform the development of an international taxonomy on conversational agents for health and well-being, thereby contributing to terminology standardization and categorization.

Coaching older adults towards a healthier lifestyle: psychological and technological methods

Chapter ArODES

Röcke Christina, Angelini Leonardo, Guye Sabrina, El Kamali Mira, Caon Maurizio, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Dans Andreoni, Giuseppe, Mambretti, Cinzia, Digital health technology for better aging: a multidisciplinary approach (Pp. 161-177). 2021, Cham : Springer

Link to the publication

Summary:

This chapter discusses the theoretical behaviour change framework and its integration and implementation of behaviour change techniques that form the conceptual psychological basis for innovative but efficient coaching approach. We review the current state of e-coaching solutions for older adults that can be found in the literature and identify gaps. Finally, we review and discuss the technological implementation of behaviour change techniques applied in NESTORE to support healthy older adults to adopt a healthy lifestyle in all NESTORE well-being domains as reference case study.

Building trust and companionship in e-coaching through embodiment

Chapter ArODES

El Kamali Mira, Angelini Leonardo, Caon Maurizio, Andreoni Guiseppe, Dulake Nick, Chamberlain Paul, Abou Khlaed Omar, Mugellini Elena

Dans Andreoni, Giuseppe, Mambretti, Cinzia, Digital health technology for better aging: a multidisciplinary approach (Pp. 195-204). 2021, Cham : Springer

Link to the publication

Summary:

E-coaches are promising tools for health interventions, being scalable and relatively low costs compared to human coaches. Nevertheless, they cannot compare to humans when it comes to trust and social companionship. Hence, many researches were held around the importance of tangible user interfaces in building trust and companionship during human-machine interaction. Co-design, in particular, is the act of creating with stakeholders within the design development process to ensure the results meet their needs and are usable. This chapter describes a design process method and the rationale for building an embodiment for a companion and a trustable e-coach. We also shed lights on the co-design process held in the NESTORE project, which was specifically conducted with older adults to build a vocal assistant that supports user’s behavioral change, as well as to increase the social bonding with the NESTORE e-coach.

Protection des données: consentement, devoir d'informer et utilisation de pictogrammes

Professionnel ArODES

Pasquier Bruno, Silacci Alessandro, Caon Maurizio

Aktuelle Juristische Praxis / Pratique Juridique Actuelle (AJP / PJA), 2021, vol. 7, pp. 889-904

Link to the publication

Summary:

Diverses initiatives encouragent l’utilisation de pictogrammes dans le contexte du devoir d’informer préalablement à un consentement à un traitement de données personnelles. L’article discute les conditions de validité du consentement et en particulier les exigences au devoir d’informer (II. et III.). Les auteurs se demandent ensuite, en prenant en compte des études dans le domaine de l’Interaction Homme-Machine, si l’utilisation de pictogrammes permet d’atteindre le but recherché, à savoir à faciliter la compréhension des informations (IV.). Les résultats montrent que, même si plusieurs réserves peuvent être faites, l’utilisation de pictogrammes permet effectivement d’améliorer la fluidité du regard et d’augmenter la vitesse de recherche d’informations ainsi que la motivation à interagir (IV.C. et IV.D.).

A novel actuating–sensing bone conduction-based system for active hand pose sensing and material densities evaluation through hand touch

Scientifique ArODES

Saggio Giovanni, Scioscia Santoro Angela, Errico Vito, Caon Maurizio, Leoni Alfiero, Ferri Giuseppe, Stronelli Vincenzo

IEEE transactions on instrumentation and measurement, 2021, vol. 70, pp. 1-7

Link to the publication

Summary:

We realized and tested a novel system aimed at discriminating different hand poses by means of an active actuating and sensing approach realized by converting electro- magnetic to mechanical waves (and vice versa) and analyzing the characteristics of the waves after their travel through the bones and cartilage of the hand. The actuating part is realized through a transducer, placed on the dorsal part of the hand, performing electromagnetic-to-mechanical energy conversion. The sensing part is realized through an accelerometer, placed on a finger, per- forming mechanical-to-electromagnetic energy conversion. The way the sound propagates through the fingers mainly depends on the traveled path, the angles of fingers’ flexion, and the (un)matched conditions with surroundings. Therefore, the investigation of the characteristics of the returned signal (in phase shifts and power spectral densities) can furnish information for discriminating among different finger poses and different densities of touched materials. The system highly performed in repeatability and reproducibility of the measures, well-discriminating among hand poses and among densities of touched materials.

Towards an AI-based tailored training planning for road cyclists :

Scientifique ArODES

a case study

Silacci Alessandro, Tahar Redha, Caon Maurizio

Applied Sciences, 2021, vol. 11, no. 1, article no. 313, pp. 1-17

Link to the publication

Summary:

In a world where the data is a central piece, we provide a novel technique to design training plans for road cyclists. This study exposes an in-depth review of a virtual coach based on state-of-the-art artificial intelligence techniques to schedule road cycling training sessions. Together with a dozen of road cycling participants’ training data, we were able to create and verify an e-coach dedicated to any level of road cyclists. The system can provide near-human coaching advice on the training of cycling athletes based on their past capabilities. In this case study, we extend the tests of our empirical research project and analyze the results provided by experts. Results of the conducted experiments show that the computational intelligence of our system can compete with human coaches at training planification. In this case study, we evaluate the system we previously developed and provide new insights and paths of amelioration for systems based on artificial intelligence for athletes. We observe that our system performs equal or better than the control training plans in 14 and 24 week training periods where it was evaluated as better in 4 of our 5 test components. We also report a higher statistical difference in the results of the experts’ evaluations between the control and virtual coach training plan (24 weeks; training load: X2 = 4.751; resting time quantity: X2 = 3.040; resting time distance: X2 = 2.550; efficiency: X2 = 2.142).

2020

"Hi This Is NESTORE, your personal assistant" :

Scientifique ArODES

design of an integrated IoT system for a personalized coach for healthy aging

Palumbo Filippo, Crivello Antonino, Furfari Francesco, Girolami Michele, Mastropietro Alfonso, Manfredelli Giorgio, Röcke Christina, Guye Sabrina, Salvá Casanovas Antoni, Caon Maurizio, Carrino Francesco, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena, Denna Enrico, Mauri Marco, Ward David, Subías-Beltrán Paula, Orte Silvia, Candea Ciprian, Candea Gabriele, Rizzo Giovanna

Frontiers in Digital Health, 2020, vol. 2, article 545949, pp. 1-17

Link to the publication

Summary:

In the context of the fourth revolution in healthcare technologies, leveraging monitoring and personalization across different domains becomes a key factor for providing useful services to maintain and promote well-being. This is even more crucial for older people, with aging being a complex multi-dimensional and multi-factorial process which can lead to frailty. The NESTORE project was recently funded by the EU Commission with the aim of supporting healthy older people to sustain their well-being and capacity to live independently. It is based on a multi-dimensional model of the healthy aging process that covers physical activity, nutrition, cognition, and social activity. NESTORE is based on the paradigm of the human-in-the-loop cyber-physical system that, exploiting the availability of Internet of Things technologies combined with analytics in the cloud, provides a virtual coaching system to support healthy aging. This work describes the design of the NESTORE methodology and its IoT architecture. We first model the end-user under several domains, then we present the NESTORE system that, analyzing relevant key-markers, provides coaching activities and personalized feedback to the user. Finally, we describe the validation strategy to assess the effectiveness of NESTORE as a coaching platform for healthy aging.

Design of an ergonomic gestural interface for professional road cycling

Scientifique ArODES

Caon Maurizio, Süsse Rico, Grelier Benoit, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Work, 2020, vol. 66, pp. 933-944

Link to the publication

Summary:

BACKGROUND: Connected bike computers can support professional cyclists in achieving better performances but interacting with them requires taking their hands off the handlebar compromising focus and safety. OBJECTIVE: This research aims at exploring the design of an ergonomic interface based on micro-gestures that can allow cyclists to interact with a device while holding the handlebar. METHODS: Three different studies were conducted with seven professional cyclists adopting the gesture-elicitation technique. One study aimed at eliciting free micro-gestures; a second to evaluate gestures recognizable with a smart glove; the last focused on the gestures recognized through an interactive armband. RESULTS: The analysis of the micro-gestures elicited during these studies allowed producing a first set of guidelines to design gestural interfaces for drop-bars (a specific type of handlebar for road bikes). These guidelines suggest which fingers to use and how to design their movement in order to provide an ergonomic interface. It also introduces the principle of symmetry for the attribution of symbols to symmetric referents. Finally, it provides suggestions on the design of the interactive drop-bar. CONCLUSIONS: The guidelines provided in this paper can support the design of gestural interfaces for professional cyclists that can enhance performance and increase safety.

Virtual coaches for older adults’ wellbeing :

Scientifique ArODES

a systematic review

El Kamali Mira, Angelini Leonardo, Caon Maurizio, Carrino Francesco, Röcke Christina, Guye Sabrina, Rizzo Giovanna, Mastropietro Alfonso, Sykora Martin, Elayan Suzanne, Kniestedt Isabelle, Ziylan Canan, Lettieri Emanuele, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

IEEE Access, 2020, vol. 8, pp. 101884-101902

Link to the publication

Summary:

Virtual Coaches, also known as e-coaches, are a disruptive technology in healthcare. Indeed, among other usages, they might provide cost-effective solutions for increasing human wellbeing in different domains, such as physical, nutritional, cognitive, social, and emotional. This paper presents a systematic review of virtual coaches specifically aimed at improving or maintaining older adults' health in the aforementioned domains. Such digital systems assume various forms, from classic apps, to more advanced conversational agents or robots. Fifty-six articles describing a virtual coach for older adults and aimed at improving their wellbeing were identified and further analyzed. In particular, we presented how previous studies defined their virtual coaches, which behavioral change models and techniques they adopted and the overall system architecture, in terms of monitoring solutions, processing methods and modalities for intervention delivery. Our results show that few thorough evaluations of e-coaching systems have been conducted, especially regarding multi-domain coaching approaches. Through our analysis, we identified the wellbeing domains that should be addressed in future studies as well as the most promising behavior change models and techniques and coaching interfaces. Previous work illustrates that older adults often appreciate conversational agents and robots. However, the lack of a multidomain intervention approach in the current literature motivates us to seek to define future solutions.

Correlation between entrepreneurial orientation and implementation of AI in Human Resources Management (HRM)

Scientifique ArODES

Baldegger Rico, Caon Maurizio, Sadiku Kreshnik

Technology innovation management review, 2020, vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 72-79

Link to the publication

Summary:

This paper develops the concept of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in human resources management (HRM) through a research questionnaire and reports the results of a study designed to investigate the perception of adopting and introducing AI in HRM processes. In addition, it investigates the correlation between entrepreneurship orientation (EO) and AI in HRM processes. A survey was conducted with a sample of 310 firm members in the HR Section Romande, as well as a literature review on the adoption of new technologies. The results indicate a perceived positive value of introducing AI in HRM and a correlation between the level of a company's EO and the introduction of AI in HRM. This means that the more a company is entrepreneurially oriented, the more it tends to implement or include already implemented AI projects and tools in HRM processes. The perceived value of AI in HRM was evaluated by comparing answers to research questions involving the introduction of AI in HRM tools, and expectations of widely implementing AI in the next five years. The main barrier of adopting AI in HRM appeared to be a lack of skills and training. In addition, potential features of implementing AI in HRM were identified as potential steps toward introducing AI as a new technology. Questions regarding the evaluation of EO were based on a research Colvin Slevin (1989). It is important for SMEs to invest in information technology to set the basis for further development. Owing to intensified competitive pressures and the necessity of entering global markets, SMEs are incrementally employing Information Technology (IT) to create substantial benefits. Most prior research has focused more on IT adoption in large organizations, yet when regarding the limited resources of SMEs, the IT adoption process is considerably different. (Ghobakhloo, Sabouri, Hong and Zulkifli, 2011).

2019

Promoting healthy teenage behaviour across three European countries through the use of a novel smartphone technology platform, PEGASO fit for future :

Scientifique ArODES

study protocol of a quasi-experimental, controlled, multi-Centre trial

Puigdomenech Elisa, Martin Anne, Lan Alexandra, Adorni Fulvio, Gomez Santiago Felipe, Caon Maurizio

BMC medical informatics and decision making, 2019, vol. 19, no 278, pp. 1-13

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background : Behaviour change interventions targeting physical activity, diet, sleep and sedentary behaviour of teenagers show promise when delivered through smartphones. However, to date there is no evidence of effectiveness of multicomponent smartphone-based interventions. Utilising a user-centred design approach, we developed a theory-based, multi-dimensional system, PEGASO Fit For Future (PEGASO F4F), which exploits sophisticated game mechanics involving smartphone applications, a smartphone game and activity sensors to motivate teenagers to take an active role in adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This paper describes the study protocol to assess the feasibility, usability and effectiveness (knowledge/awareness and behavioural change in lifestyle) of the PEGASO system. Methods : We are conducting a quasi-experimental controlled cluster trial in 4 sites in Spain, Italy, and UK (England, Scotland) over 6 months. We plan to recruit 525, in a 2:1 basis, teenagers aged 13–16 years from secondary schools. The intervention group is provided with the PEGASO system whereas the comparison group continues their usual educational routine. Outcomes include feasibility, acceptance, and usability of the PEGASO system as well as between and within group changes in motivation, self-reported diet, physical activity, sedentary and sleeping behaviour, anthropometric measures and knowledge about a healthy lifestyle. Discussion : PEGASO F4F will provide evidence into the cross-cultural similarities and differences in the feasibility, acceptability and usability of a multi-dimensional smartphone based behaviour change intervention for teenagers. The study will explore facilitating factors, challenges and barriers of engaging teenagers to adapt and maintain a healthy lifestyle when using smartphone technology. Positive results from this ICT based multi component intervention may have significant implications both at clinical level, improving teenagers health and at public health level since it can present an influential tool against the development of chronic disease during adulthood.

Codesign of public spaces for intercultural communication, diversity and inclusion

Chapter ArODES

Rinaldi Alessandra, Angelini Leonardo, Abou Khaled , Mugellini Elena, Caon Maurizio

Dans Di Bucchianico, Giuseppe, Advances in design for inclusion : proceedings of the AHFE 2019 International Conference on design for inclusion and the AHFE 2019 International Conference on human factors for apparel and textile engineering, July 24-28, 2019, Washington D.C., USA (Pp. 186-195). 2019, Cham, Switzerland : Springer

Link to the publication

Summary:

The consistent phenomenon of immigration from countries with different cultures, that characterized the last decade, has changed the use of public spaces in European cities. The need to develop innovative solutions aimed at improving intercultural inclusion and mutual understanding of all citizens emerges, so that urban spaces become inclusive, safe and sustainable. This research project is focused on two main questions: (1) can design and technology enable the creation of a different way of living the public space to catalyze interpersonal interaction and to promote a shared sense of citizenship? (2) is it possible to support intercultural communication and to facilitate social inclusion through the design of innovative and interactive public spaces equipped with smart urban furniture? This paper presents three Design Orienting Scenarios as results of the research conducted by several experts, professionals and people with different cultural backgrounds during a focus groups and two different workshops where they made converge competences from design, business, engineering and social sciences to find innovative solutions for the social inclusion of migrants in urban areas.

Enhancing toward the last universal common descendant

Scientifique ArODES

Roduit Johann A. R., Caon Maurizio, Menuz Vincent

Journal of posthuman studies, 2018, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 184-189

Link to the publication

Summary:

In the debate addressing socio-ethical issues related to human enhancement, some have suggested that technological modifications of individuals could vastly increase diversity between them. This article argues the contrary. In this thought experiment, we argue that if—as some have argued—we have a moral obligation to use technology to enhance humans and other species, and if such enhancement is understood as improving particular traits only, it might artificially make all the species in the world converge toward a specific one, which we have named the last universal common descendant. In this reductio ad absurdum, we suggest that this argument could be used to challenge the idea that it would be morally good to enhance humans and other species without considering their species limitations.

2018

Utilizzare il design partecipativo per l'innovazione sostenibile

Scientifique ArODES

Caon Maurizio, Angelini Leonardo, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Rivista italiana di ergonomia, 2018, no. 16, pp. 9-23

Link to the publication

My pain coach :

Chapter ArODES

a mobile system with tangible interface for pain assessment

Caon Maurizio, Angelini Leonardo, Ledermann Katharina, Martin-Sölch Chantal, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Dans Bagnara, Sebastiano, Proceedings of the 20th Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA 2018) : volume VII: ergonomics in design, design for all, activity theories for work analysis and design, affective design (Pp. 1372-1381). 2018, Cham : Springer

Link to the publication

Summary:

Pain assessment is an essential first step in planning for and providing pain management. Access to effective pain management programs is often limited, due to scarcity of services. Other barriers to treatment include physical symptoms that limit mobility, distance from a clinic, transportation requirements and cost constraints. In response to these barriers to service delivery, the demand for online health resources is growing. However, current solutions present a number of shortcomings, in particular when referring to usability and accessibility. This paper presents the vision of the My Pain Coach system and the first prototype generated as the result of the first iteration of the development process. This prototype is based on a smartphone app and presents two different interfaces: a force-sensitive touchscreen, and a tangible interface based on a textile mat. A preliminary usability evaluation has been conducted and the results show that these interfaces are perceived as excellent from a usability point of view. Nevertheless, further development and testing are still required for the tangible interface.

Gesturing on the handlebar :

Chapter ArODES

a user-elicitation study for on-bike gestural interaction

Caon Maurizio, Süsse Rico, Grelier Benoit, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Link to the publication

Summary:

There are growing numbers of apps and smartphone-mounts for professional cyclists, since they are crucial to track performances during training. However, these solutions require the athlete to take her hand off the handlebar to interact with it. This represents a major safety issue for the cyclists since it requires leaving the brake control, shifting the attention and, possibly, compromising posture. This paper reports the findings of a user elicitation study conducted with seven professional and semi-professional cyclists in order to design gestures that can be performed while maintaining the hands in the correct position on the handlebar. Results report the frequency of fingers used for these gestures, with the index being the favorite. Furthermore, it provides a classification of gestures in three categories: press, extension and swipe. The most convenient gestures were the thumb and index press, followed by the extension of different combinations of fingers.

Designing urban smart furniture for facilitating migrants' integration :

Chapter ArODES

the co-design workshop as approach for supporting inclusive design

Rinaldi Alessandra, Caon Maurizio, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Link to the publication

Summary:

European cities are changing due the immigration of people from different cultures. There are many issues related to the integration and dialogue between cultures. Urban design plays a key role in how migrants participate in their host community and it is an important driver for the inclusion process. Facilitating the participation of residents in designing public spaces and their use helps to create a better sense of belonging. Promoting in public spaces the interaction of different cultures becomes a crucial element to facilitate social cohesion and living together. The research project explores an innovative approach in the use of public spaces, through the design of smart urban furniture. Based on a survey of the user’s needs, and on co-design activities, the project investigates innovative solutions for facilitating migrants’ integration and the dialogue between different cultures, through the design of innovative urban furniture, with smart technologies embodied inside. The project, based on the co-design approach of rapid prototyping, creates different kinds of new interaction among urban space and people, and between users of different social or cultural background. The results presented in this paper, were conducted by the research unit of the University of Florence, in cooperation with the Human Tech Institute and the School of Management of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland.

Eudaimonic gamification to engage cancer patients in positive coping strategies

Chapter ArODES

Ventura João, Ingram Sandy, Caon Maurizio, Zumstein-Shaha Maya, Abou Khaled Omar, Mugellini Elena

Dans Kurosu, Masaaki, Human-computer interaction : interaction in context : 20th International Conference, HCI International 2018, Las Vegas, NV, USA, July 15–20, 2018, Proceedings, Part II (Pp. 206-218). 2018, Cham : Springer

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Summary:

This paper presents a mobile gamified application encouraging positive coping strategies for patients of serious and possibly fatal illnesses. The application concept is based on the analogy between one’s lifetime memories and future bucket lists and a journey in the sea of remembrance, traveling back and forth between past and present positive moments and future wish-lists, whilst being aware that life as water, goes on. This concept was co-designed by a team of UX researchers, engineers, and domain experts applying the principles of Eudaimonic design. The iterative development process brought to the final prototype: a multimedia diary with a gameful interface, which is thoroughly described, along with the relative heuristic and empirical evaluations, in this paper.

Towards cross-generational system design

Chapter ArODES

Caon Maurizio

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Summary:

This paper introduces the concept of cross-generational system, which indicates an information technology system designed to allow different generations interacting through centuries or, even, millennia. In the era of digital immortality and advances in artificial intelligence, there will be not only the problem of preserving and accessing data, but the emergence of digital clones will bring new challenges for technology development, interaction design and ethics. This paper provides an overview of societal transformation towards digital immortality, then describes the vision of cross-generational system design, investigates the relative future challenges and proposes the eventual socio-ethical questions.

Feet fidgeting detection based on accelerometers using decision tree learning and gradient boosting

Chapter ArODES

Esseiva Julien, Caon Maurizio, Mugellini Elena, Abou Khaled Omar, Aminian Kamiar

Dans Ortuño, Francesco, Rojas, Ignacio, Bioinformatics and Biomedical Engineering : 6th International Work-Conference, IWBBIO 2018, Granada, Spain, April 25–27, 2018, Proceedings, Part I (Pp. 75-84). 2018, Cham : Springer

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Summary:

Detection of fidgeting activities is a field which has not been much explored as of now. Studies have shown that fidgeting has a beneficial impact on people's healthiness as it burns a significant amount of energy. Being able to detect when someone is fidgeting would allow to study more closely the health impact of fidgeting. The purpose of this work is to propose an algorithm being able to detect feet fidgeting period of subjects while sitting using 3D accelerometers on both shoes. Initial results on data from 5 subjects collected during this work shows an accuracy of 95% for a classification between sitting with fidgeting and sitting without fidgeting.

Towards the nestore e-coach: a tangible and embodied conversational agent for older adults

Scientifique

Mira El Kamali, Leonardo Angelini, Maurizio Caon, Giuseppe Andreoni, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini

Proceedings of the 2018 ACM International Joint Conference and 2018 International Symposium on Pervasive and Ubiquitous Computing and Wearable Computers, 2018

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Summary:

The ability to engage the user in a conversation and the credibility of the system are two fundamental characteristics of virtual coaches. In this paper, we present the architecture of a conversational e-coach for promoting healthy lifestyles in older age, developed in the context of the NESTORE H2020 EU project. The proposed system allows multiple access points to a conversational agent via different interaction modalities: a tangible companion that embodies the virtual coach will leverage voice and other non-verbal cues in the domestic environment, while a mobile app will integrate a text-based chat for a ubiquitous intervention. In both cases, the conversational agent will deliver personalized interventions based on behavior change models and will promote trust by means of emotionally rich conversations.

2017

Bien-être psychologique avec l'âge

Professionnel ArODES

Angelini Leonardo, Carrino Francesco, Caon Maurizio, Mugellini Elena, Khaled Omar Abou, Couture Nadine

Angewandte GERONTOLOGIE Appliquée, 2017, vol. 2

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Summary:

La perte progressive de mobilité chez les seniors peut avoir de lourdes conséquences, pas seulement physiques, mais aussi psychiques et cognitives due à un isolement social croissant. La fenêtre interactive est un outil permettant la communication à distance. Elle est issue d’un projet de recherche qui vise à réduire l’isolement social des seniors en utilisant de nouvelles technologies de manière innovante.

Intelligent assistive technology for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias :

Scientifique ArODES

a systematic review

Ienca Marcello, Jotterand Fabrice, Elger Bernice, Caon Maurizio, Scoccia Pappagallo Alessandro, Kressig Reto W., Wangmo Tenzin

Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 2017, vol. 56, no. 4, pp. 1301-1340

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Summary:

Intelligent assistive technologies (IATs) have the potential of offering innovative solutions to mitigate the global burden of dementia and provide new tools for dementia care. While technological opportunities multiply rapidly, clinical applications are rare as the technological potential of IATs remains inadequately translated into dementia care. In this article, the authors present the results of a systematic review and the resulting comprehensive technology index of IATs with application in dementia care. Computer science, engineering, and medical databases were extensively searched and the retrieved items were systematically reviewed. For each IAT, the authors examined their technological type, application, target population, model of development, and evidence of clinical validation. The findings reveal that the IAT spectrum is expanding rapidly in volume and variety over time, and encompasses intelligent systems supporting various assistive tasks and clinical uses. At the same time, the results confirm the persistence of structural limitations to successful adoption including partial lack of clinical validation and insufficient focus on patients’ needs. This index is designed to orient clinicians and relevant stakeholders involved in the implementation and management of dementia care across the current capabilities, applications, and limitations of IATs and to facilitate the translation of medical engineering research into clinical practice. In addition, a discussion of the major methodological challenges and policy implications for the successful and ethically responsible implementation of IAT into dementia care is provided.

2016

Testing the tangible interactive window with older adults

Scientifique ArODES

Angelini Leonardo, Carrino Francesco, Caon Maurizio, Lemaréchal Frédéric, Couture Nadine, Khaled Omar Abou, Mugellini Elena

GeroPsych, 2016, vol. 29, no. 4, pp. 215-224

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Summary:

Social relationships are crucial for older adults’ well-being. Past research demonstrated that video-communication technology could reduce social isolation. However, most commercial telecommunication systems have interfaces that are too complex to be operated by older adults without assistance. In this paper, we present a system that exploits the tangible affordances of a physical window to provide a natural interface for an always-on video-communication system. In addition, we present a case study focused on the system accessibility and user acceptance with 8 older adults living in a retirement home. We also describe the preliminary findings based on an observation study and on a semistructured interview. Finally, we discuss the possible improvements and impact this system might have on older adults’ life.

2021

Seniors’ perception of smart speakers: challenges and opportunities elicited in the Silver&Home Living Lab

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini

Proceedings of the 21st Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA 2021)

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Summary:

As the European population is getting older, there is an increasing need in maintaining older adults living independently at home. Vocal assistants may offer various services that can be beneficial for senior citizens. In the context of the Silver&Home living lab, we tested the Google Home Smart speaker connected to smart lighting installation with 7 people to understand the strengths, weaknesses and possible usage for improving the quality of life of older adults. The test and the questions asked to participants were framed according to the Unified Theory on Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2). Participants generally appreciated the interaction with the smart speaker, although they also identified some barriers, such as the “OK Google” wakeword or the assistant speaking too fast for some answers. Finally, they considered it particularly adapted to people living alone.

Opportunities and challenges of digital technologies for inclusion

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of the 21st Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA 2021) : Volume II: Inclusive Design

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Summary:

Digital technologies are profoundly changing our daily life and our society more in general. This transformation brings new opportunities and challenges also in terms of inclusion. Indeed, some technologies can present barriers in terms of adoption and accessibility; for this reason, it is important to elaborate new methodologies that can guide the design process in order to be more inclusive. At the same time, digital services and products can empower citizens to fight social exclusion, or assist people with disabilities for enabling them to perform activities that they have not been able to do before, or to increase participation of disadvantaged people in social and economic activities. This paper shows the current trends in terms of design applied to digital technologies and highlights the importance and urgency of this topic calling all researchers from academia and industry for action to leverage “design for all” methods in order to increase inclusion in our connected world.

Inclusion design and functionalities of a personalized virtual coach for wellbeing to facilitate a universal access for older adults

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Francesco Carrino

Proceedings of the 21st Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA 2021)

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Summary:

The current research proposes a technological system "NESTORE" designed for and with older adults in four different countries in order to improve and sustain their wellbeing. The system personalized activities and architecture, co-designed interfaces, and its multilingual aspect aim to establish an ‘inclusion’ criterion based on the user’s sociocultural profile and health condition.

A study on the acceptance towards blockchain-based access to biobanks’ services using UTAUT2 with ITM and perceived risk

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Francesco Carrino

Proceedings of the 21st Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA 2021)

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Summary:

The blockchain technology offers reliability, decentralization, security and credibility. Blockchain solutions can be based on smart contracts and on the use of utility tokens which may represent a utility of a company like limited fashion items, cars, car parts or even human biological samples stored in biobanks. However, decentralization comes with responsibilities: people must take care of storing those tokens in a safe place (commonly denominated as “wallets”) knowing that losing a wallet or wallet key means losing the owned tokens. This concept is still new to people and might sound scary. The success of such services relies on the extent of customers intending to adopt them and very few studies target this intention. The current research proposes a model combining of the unified theory of acceptance and usage of technology (UTAUT2) with the initial trust model (ITM) and the perceived risk construct in order to evaluate the factors affecting the behaviour and use intention of people towards a blockchain technology that enables access to biobank services. An online questionnaire was built and sent to swiss university students. The 72 results showed that simplifying the access to blockchain-based technologies will facilitate inclusion, enabling people with lower digital literacy to access these technologies.

2020

An embodied and ubiquitous e-coach for accompanying older adults towards a better lifestyle

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Mira El Kamali, Elena Mugellini

Human-computer Interaction : human values and quality of life : thematic area, HCI 2020, held as part of the 22nd International Conference, HCII 2020, Copenhagen, Denmark, July 19–24, 2020, proceedings, part III

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Summary:

The population of people age 65 or over is increasing especially inEurope [3]. Granting to this target population a longer and healthier life isparamount for the European Community. In the context of the H2020 EUfunded project“NESTORE”[11], an embodied and ubiquitous e-coach is beingdeveloped seeking to change the lifestyle of seniors in different domains ofwellbeing. NESTORE e-coach is known as a personalized embodied andubiquitous e-coach that plays three essential roles in elderly’s wellbeing: acoach, a friend and a companion. As a coach, NESTORE will give trainings andadvice following a wellbeing path that is proposed by experts in wellbeing. As afriend, this e-coach knows and understands the user. As a companion, this e-coach has the ability to detect the user’s emotion and aims at building empathywith the user based by providing support throughout their daily training.The NESTORE e-coach is based on three different intervention medium: amobile application, a chatbot and an embodied vocal assistant. These interfaceshave different forms, different capabilities and different visions. Users cancommunicate with the NESTORE e-coach through different interfaces exclu-sively, sequentially, concurrently and synergistically. The interaction can beinitiated from the user side to different interfaces and/or from the e-coach side.In this paper, we present the NESTORE’s full vision for building the threeessential roles of this e-coach which are: a coach, a companion and a friend forseniors. Furthermore, we explain the NESTORE system design, architecture,capabilities and how the different interfaces of this E-coach contribute to make amulti-modal system. Finally, we conclude our work with the state of this H2020project.

Comparing the ergonomics of gestural interfaces while running on a treadmill

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Alessandro Silacci, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini

Advances in physical, social & occupational ergonomics : Proceedings of the AHFE 2020 Virtual Conferences on Physical Ergonomics and Human Factors, Social & Occupational Ergonomics and Cross-Cultural Decision Making, July 16–20, 2020, USA

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Summary:

Interactions with treadmills are based on pressing buttons or through a touchscreen. However, these interactions require the user to touch the frontal dashboard of the treadmill while running. Indeed, for each interaction that the runner does, the user needs to break her/his running form to reach the interface. Those actions cost also some additional energy to the runner with a possible impact on performance. Current technologies allow finding a better solution for the runner like gesture-based interaction. This paper presents a comparison of different interaction modalities, including gestures, on a treadmill. The goal of this study is to analyze the ergonomics of gestural interfaces while running on a treadmill. In fact, specific tailored gestures are perceived as more natural and easier to perform while doing an activity and can improve significantly the user experience.

NESTORE

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Leonardo Angelini, Mira El Kamali, Elena Mugellini

Proceedings of the 2nd Conference on Conversational User Interfaces (CUI'20), 9-10 July, Bilbao, Spain

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Summary:

Conversational agents are becoming widespread thanks to the development of natural language processing and deep learning techniques. NESTORE is a virtual coach designed to support seniors during their journey to wellbeing. This virtual coach interacts with the user through two different type of conversational agents: a text-based chatbot integrated in a mobile application and a tangible coach, which is a physical object based on vocal interaction and tangible interaction. This paper presents the design of each conversational agent interface developed to support seniors in enhancing their wellbeing. A cloud conversational agent manages the user interaction with the NESTORE virtual coach, which can occur through interfaces with different design, forms and capabilities, i.e., the chatbot and the tangible coach: two different intelligent interfaces with a shared mind.

Digitalization of the last mile of a humanitarian supply chain

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Paul Vaucher, Omar Abou Khaled

Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Human Interaction and Emerging Technologies: Future Applications (IHIET – AI 2020)

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Summary:

The digitalization of humanitarian supply chains allows overcoming one of the greatest difficulties faced by NGOs and governments in managing health equipment in crisis situations: the visibility of stocks and consumption at the end of the chain. This paper presents the design process of the health equipment inventory management system developed to support the humanitarian crisis related to the Syrian refugees in Lebanon. The prototype was tested at the pharmacy of the ICRC Weapon-wounded Trauma and Training Centre in Tripoli, Lebanon, where it was demonstrated to be easy to use and able to facilitate the work related to the management of medicament stocks and orders.

Enriching the user experience of a connected car with quantified self

Conference ArODES

Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Intelligent Human Systems Integration (IHSI 2020)

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Summary:

This paper presents the R’SENS project, the design for a system leveraging the Internet of Things to connect the dots between the user, her car and her environment through the integration of tools belonging to different domains, such as the connected car, the quantified self and web services. The aim of this study is to test a concept through a prototype to explore the possibility of enhancing the user experience of a connected car through the opportune and ubiquitous display of relevant information not only about the car status and the environment, but also the physical status of the driver. The integration of three different user interfaces (i.e., wearable, smartphone and infotainment system) to be used in different moments played a crucial role in the preliminary evaluation of the perceived usefulness and usability of this proof-of-concept.

2019

Desigining an e-coach to tailor training plans for road cyclists

Conference ArODES

Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Alessandro Silacci, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of 3rd International Conference on Human Systems Engineering and Design: Future Trends and Applications (IHSED 2019), 16-18 September 2019, Munich, Germany

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Summary:

Athletes seek to constantly improve their performances pushing their limits and overwork is often the direct consequence of this behavior. This is not a common problem for professionals, who usually are followed by a coach, but it is a growing phenomenon in amateur sports, which drives people to get injured because of overtraining or incorrect movements. Meantime, advances in artificial intelligence enabled the creation of new tools increasingly capable of understanding the complexity of our world. We therefore propose a novel e-coaching system for road cycling athletes, able to automatically follow and tailor their training plans. This paper describes the design of the machine learning algorithm, its model based on reinforcement learning and the metrics that were adopted for the scoring system. Finally, we report our tests, which show that the virtual coach already can compete with human experts in making a proper personalized training plan.

Designing systems for the digital immortality of intangible cultural heritage

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of International Conference on Human Interaction and Emerging Technologies (IHIET 2019)

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Summary:

Digital curation of cultural heritage is an urgent and important matter for our society, which is becoming more and more digitized. In particular, preserving intangible cultural heritage requires novel solutions that can enable transmitting all the nuances of values and identity linked to different traditions and communities. The current development of digital copies of human beings, which promises the achievement of digital immortality in the near future, can allow our posterity to experience traditional events or create new artistic performances with deceased people that, otherwise, could not be lived and, therefore, understood.

The antecedents and outcomes of AI adoption in SMEs

Conference ArODES

Rico Baldegger, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of 2019 International Council for Small Business World Congress

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A decision support system to propose coaching plans for seniors

Conference ArODES

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of the 32nd IEEE CBMS International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems

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Summary:

This paper presents the decision support system that has been defined and developed under the umbrella of the NESTORE project. The main goal of the proposed system is to help users in selecting coaching plans by proposing personalised recommendations based on their behaviours and preferences. Recognising such behaviours and their evolution over time is therefore a crucial element for tailoring the interaction of the system with the user. A three-layer system composed of pathways, coaching activity plans, and coaching events, constitutes the so-called coaching timeline on which the analysis is grounded. Various techniques are used to model and personalise the recommendations and feedback. Firstly, the indicators are extracted from disparate data sources, then these are modelled through a profiling system and, finally, recommendations on the pathways and coaching plans are performed through a scoring and a tagging system.

2018

Ubiquitous Chatbots :

Conference ArODES

workshop on wearable and embodied conversational agents

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of ACM International Symposium on Wearble Computers (ISWC'18), Ubicomp 2018, 8-12 October 2018, Singapore

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Summary:

Human-computer interaction is progressively shifting towards natural language communication, determining the rise of conversational agents. In the context of ubiquitous computing, the opportunities for interacting with new services and systems in a conversational manner are increasing and, nowadays, it is common to talk to home assistants to interact with a smart environment or to write to chatbots to access an online service. This workshop aims at bringing together researchers from academia and industry in order to establish a multidisciplinary community interested in discovering and exploring the challenges and opportunities coming from the ubiquity of conversational agents.

Towards the NESTORE e-Coach :

Conference ArODES

a tangible and embodied conversational agent for older adults

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Mira El Kamali, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of ACM International Symposium on Wearble Computers (ISWC'18), Ubicomp 2018, 8-12 October 2018, Singapore

Link to the conference

Summary:

A personalised virtual coach to counteract ageing decline :

Conference ArODES

the H2020 NESTORE project

Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of ForItAAL 2018

Link to the conference

Summary:

Ageing population is growing faster in EU. ICT can provide solutions for Active Ageing; however, the success of novel ICT solutions depends on the user perception about their efficacy to support toward health promotion and global wellness. In this context, the H2020 project NESTORE (Non-intrusive Empower-ing Solutions and Technologies for Older people to Retain Everyday life activity) will develop an innovative, multidimensional, personalised coaching system to support healthy ageing by: 1) Generating and sustaining motivation to take care of health; 2) Suggesting healthy nutrition and personalised physical and mental coach, as well as social interaction, to prevent decline and preserve wellbeing. NESTORE started in September 2017 and will last three years. It involves 16 partners from 7 European countries.

Teenagers' usage of a mobile-wearable-cloud platform to promote healthy lifestyles :

Conference ArODES

the PEGASO experience

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of the 40th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC'18)

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Summary:

In contemporary society, non-communicable diseases linked to unhealthy lifestyles, such as obesity, are on the rise with a major impact on global deaths. Prevention is the new frontier, promising to increase life expectancy and quality, while reducing costs related to healthcare. The PEGASO project developed a mobile ecosystem where the digital Companion aims at empowering teenagers in the adoption of healthy lifestyles. The pilot study conducted in three European countries (Spain, UK and Italy) shows a good acceptance of the system and that teenagers are keen to use mobile technology to improve their lifestyle, although wearable devices did not engage the young users

Towards multisensory storming

Conference ArODES

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of DIS 2018

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Summary:

Current digital system interfaces are mainly based on vision and hearing. HCI practitioners and researchers need to introduce unconventional senses in interaction design in order to avoid sensory deprivation in digital life and enhance information accessibility. In this paper, we present a novel technique, called Multisensory Storming, which aims at supporting the multisensory interaction design process. Multisensory Storming is a group method enabling the generation of new ideas and design proposals in physical contexts through exercises that allow exploring all the human senses.

Designing systems in the digital immortality era

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of DIS 2018

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Summary:

Society is undergoing a relentless digital transformation process. This process is creating a digital copy of every entity present in the physical world and these digital goods will be inherited through centuries establishing a direct link between distant generations. Advances in artificial intelligence make the promise for future whole brain emulation enabling the possibility of uploading the human mind on a digital system. This would enable the possibility of interacting with immortal digital clones of deceased people. This paper wants to start investigating the consequences of the emergence of the concept of digital immortality.

Towards multisensory storming

Conference ArODES

Leonardo Angelini, Omar Abou Khaled, Elena Mugellini, Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of Designing Interactive Systems (DIS), 9-13 June 2018, Hong Kong, China

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Summary:

Ethics by design :

Conference ArODES

necessity or curse?

Maurizio Caon

Proceedings of the AAAI / ACM Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics and Society

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Summary:

Ethics by Design concerns the methods, algorithms and tools needed to endow autonomous agents with the capability to reason about the ethical aspects of their decisions, and the methods, tools and formalisms to guarantee that an agent’s behavior remains within given moral bounds. In this context some questions arise: How and to what extent can agents un-derstand the social reality in which they operate, and the other intelligences (AI, animals and humans) with which they co-exist? What are the ethical concerns in the emerging new forms of society, and how do we ensure the human dimen-sion is upheld in interactions and decisions by autonomous agents?. But overall, the central question is: “Can we, and should we, build ethically-aware agents?”

2017

A mobile serious game fostering healthy eating habits

Conference ArODES

Maurizio Caon, Stefano Carrino, Elena Mugellini

Proceedings of the 2nd Gamification & Serious Games Symposium (GSGS 17), 30 June-1 July 2017, Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Link to the conference

Achievements

Search

Caon Maurizio

Professeur HES ordinaire

Main skills

Human Computer Interaction

Digital transformation

User Experience Design (UX)

Human-Centered Computing

Digital system design

Design thinking

Digitalisation

Professeur HES ordinaire