Life without a Gaming Console Brought to you by Playcast

 Say for a minute you don't want to go buy a PlayStation 3s or Xbox. Say you want to just sit right in front of your TV and use your set-top-box (STB) to play games on your TV.

You can. Playcast Media is an on demand gaming service delivered via your TV without a games console.  Yes you heard that right, without a console or downloads. Playcast, based in Israel and London, is a games-on-demand system for cable and IPTV operators. It turns a standard STB into a game console, eliminating latency. For end-users the Playcast service is a convenient and inexpensive way to play video games, it also gives users personalization options and community/social features which you can access direct from your TV (or PC).

In a recent Reuters post, Sony said they are setting out to reform the TV segment, well, they meant THEIR TV segment, but the point is that the whole TV segment IS changing. More choices, less people buying TVs, more devices, the list goes on. Add to that the fact that both Bravia TVs and PlayStation game consoles cut its annual forecast for televisions to 22 million sets from 27 million.

This leaves the door wide open for other options for the consumer to play games on the TV, but also for operators who are looking for new revenue streams.

According to Josh Mortensen, cofounder, Digitarian which became LOVEFiLM DK and current founder and managing partner, GlibHippo, TV hardware will soon become commodities like chips. "Sony, Samsung etc. will become like Intel and AMD. Apple and other brands that aren't even born yet, will add the true value in the long run. They are the future of TV."

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He might be right. In CNET's Digital Home, Wedbush analyst, Michael Pachter reported that sales game consoles, TV hardware's previously fastest growing segment, had plummeted in June 2011.

Pachter reported Microsoft led the way in console sales last month, selling 355,000 Xbox 360 units in the U.S. However, that figure is down 21 percent compared to the same period last year. Nintendo Wii scored the second spot in unit sales with 325,000 sold, representing a 23 percent decline compared to June 2010. Pachter believes Sony suffered a 21 percent drop in unit sales last month by selling 240,000 PlayStation 3s.

Good news for Playcast.

MercurySteam Founder says Fun and Clarity Created Castelvania Lords of Shadow

 Enric Alvarez, games director & co-owner of MercurySteam, makers of Castelvania Lords of the Shadow, spoke in his native Spanish through a female translator at the Games Developer Conference Europe today. Alvarez pushed the theme of passion and having fun in your work in everything he said. Through a string of futball references and lovely Spanish cliches, Alvarez clearly had a message: If you work hard and are passionate about your work during this difficult and transitional stage in the development of games, you will make a good product and survive.

This was clearly a man that wanted to paint a picture for developers of the challenges they face today, but also to motivate them -- emphasizing simplicity and clarity as the key drivers that power his company. Alvarez says developers from the 80s were pioneers. They had vast success (showing a photo of a Ferrari) and from that success, other people turned those games into the big business that is gaming today. Alvarez says that's not bad thing, but that the industry today is not and will never be like that again.

Alvarez says we want to live with passion and leave behind good video games, these are things that people can enjoy.

Wooga's CEO Says 'Playing' Is A Core Human Desire

 Jens Begemann, CEO of  wooga says that "playing" is a core human desire. He believes social games will change the entertainment industry. At his Games Developer Conference Europe keynote today, Begemann not only launched a new game on Facebook, Magic Land (read the standard press release here) but addressed a market segment he believes is being overlooked in social gaming - women.

Now, we all know that wooga makes social games and these are NOT the console games that we cut our teeth on of late - Grand Theft Auto, Call of Duty, Halo, Warcraft, to name a few. These are asynchronous games that you play in short sessions with friends in your social network. By the way he talked today, you would think he believed that woman are the key to the future of monetization of all social games, saying, "We are paying attention to what women want to play and how they spend their time."

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Begemann believes that today's social games are not about taking console games and just making new games, but creating new social games for a new target groups. And, he believes the reason this group is NOT playing games boils down to four primary reasons:

Wants to play with friends

"You just can't put a team of developers on it and say, go adapt these games," said Begemann in his keynote. "There are only about 25 successful social games on Facebook, including Monster World, and this is because these games are created to engage users driven by key elements."

Begemann describes those must-have key social game elements as: customize avatar, decorations, expansions, instant build, materials, coins, magic and fuel. In fact, more than 35% of the revenue from wooga's hit game Monster World, comes from a "buying fuel feature" that users can buy to "power" their movements through the game.

wooga had some interesting stats on how Americans are playing games, with just 10% of their users from Germany, they are more interested in their global user base. According to his data, Americans spend 215 million hours on playing computer games. That number breaks down like this:  console games, 19%, social networks 16% and mobile devices 12%, etc. That group of women he wants to reach, they fit right in there.

He makes it clear that social games are not MMOG, they are  MPPG – Message Parallel Play Games. That point he hit hard. "Social interactions are getting more intense and more sophisticated, we have to create games that fit today's users."

Begemann mentioned the new live game updates Facebook announced last week (here on Forbes by Tomio Green) that sends out notifications to you about which of your friends are playing games at the same time. Begemann says the industry has got to get creative. "Now, it's up to game developers to develop features that allow synchronous play inside of this asynchronous gaming environment."

I asked him what his projections were for Magic Land and his reply was just one word: "Positive."

AI:List the AI techniques which can be used in the taps, showers, living room furniture etc. in the order to prevent it from stolen especially in public properties, civil bodies buildings, quarters. Which AI automated machines are available to implement this anti theft technologies using both scientific and natural social,economic methods in real time.

Implementing anti-theft technologies in public properties, civil buildings, and quarters requires a combination of AI techniques and automated systems to deter theft and ensure security. Here are some AI techniques and automated machines that can be utilized for this purpose:

1. Surveillance Cameras with Object Detection:

   • Utilize surveillance cameras equipped with object detection algorithms to monitor public areas, entrances, and valuable assets.
   • AI techniques such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) can be used for real-time object detection to identify potential theft or suspicious behavior.

2. Smart Locks and Access Control Systems:

   • Install smart locks and access control systems on doors, windows, and entry points to restrict unauthorized access.
   • These systems can incorporate AI algorithms for facial recognition or biometric authentication to ensure only authorized individuals can enter specific areas.

3. Asset Tracking and RFID Technology:

   • Implement asset tracking systems using RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology to monitor the movement of valuable items within buildings or premises.
   • AI algorithms can analyze RFID data to detect anomalies or deviations from normal asset movement patterns, indicating potential theft.

4. Predictive Analytics and Anomaly Detection:

   • Utilize predictive analytics and anomaly detection algorithms to identify patterns associated with theft or suspicious behavior.
   • AI techniques such as machine learning can analyze historical data and real-time sensor inputs to detect unusual activities and trigger alerts for security personnel.

5. Remote Monitoring and Alerts:

   • Deploy automated systems for remote monitoring of security cameras, access control systems, and sensors.
   • AI-based algorithms can analyze streaming video feeds and sensor data to detect unauthorized access attempts or unusual events, sending alerts to security personnel or law enforcement agencies.

6. Physical Security Measures:

   • Implement physical security measures such as barriers, bollards, and anti-theft devices to deter theft and protect valuable assets.
   • AI techniques can be used to optimize the placement of physical security measures based on risk assessment and historical crime data.

7. Integration with Law Enforcement Systems:

   • Integrate anti-theft systems with local law enforcement agencies' databases and crime reporting systems.
   • AI-powered analytics can assist law enforcement in identifying trends, hotspots, and repeat offenders, enabling proactive measures to prevent theft and apprehend perpetrators.

8. Public Awareness and Social Engagement:

   • Utilize AI-powered social media analytics and sentiment analysis to gauge public perceptions and awareness of theft-related issues.
   • Automated messaging systems can disseminate crime prevention tips, security reminders, and community alerts to raise awareness and encourage public participation in crime prevention efforts.

By combining these AI techniques with automated machines and systems, public properties, civil buildings, and quarters can enhance security measures, deter theft, and ensure the safety of residents, employees, and visitors.

 Here's a breakdown of AI techniques and approaches for anti-theft in public places, combining technological and social/economic methods:

AI Techniques for Theft Prevention:

• Anomaly Detection: AI algorithms can analyze sensor data from taps, showers, and furniture to identify unusual usage patterns that might signal theft attempts. This could include:
  • Monitoring water flow in taps and showers to detect excessive or unauthorized usage.
  • Tracking movement sensors in furniture to identify unauthorized tampering or removal attempts.
• Computer Vision: Security cameras with AI-powered object recognition can be used to:
  • Detect unauthorized individuals near the targeted objects.
  • Identify if objects are being removed from their designated locations.

Automated Machines and Technologies:

• Smart Locks and Access Control: Implementing smart locks with access control systems can restrict unauthorized access to taps, showers, and furniture in specific areas. Biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) can add another layer of security.
• RFID Tags and Tracking: Attaching RFID tags to valuable furniture and integrating them with reader systems can track their location and movement, deterring theft and aiding recovery.

Social and Economic Deterrents:

• Signage and Awareness Campaigns: Prominent signage highlighting the use of AI-powered anti-theft systems can act as a psychological deterrent.
• Community Policing and Neighborhood Watch Programs: Increased security personnel presence and community involvement in public areas can discourage theft attempts.
• Economic Incentives and Disincentives: Rewarding responsible behavior (e.g., reporting suspicious activity) and imposing fines for theft attempts can influence behavior.

Real-Time Implementation Challenges:

• Cost and Infrastructure: Implementing AI-powered systems and advanced security measures requires significant investment, which may not be feasible for all public buildings.
• Privacy Concerns: Data collection and usage for AI systems need to be transparent and adhere to privacy regulations to avoid public resistance.
• Integration with Existing Systems: Integrating new AI-based security systems with existing infrastructure can be complex and require technical expertise.

Combined Approach:

A comprehensive strategy using a combination of AI techniques, automated security systems, and social/economic deterrents is most effective. This approach can create a layered security system that discourages theft attempts while being mindful of cost, privacy, and real-world implementation challenges.

Additional Considerations:

• False Positives: AI systems can generate false alarms. It's crucial to have proper protocols for verifying alerts and avoiding unnecessary interventions.
• Security System Maintenance: Regular maintenance and updates are essential to ensure the effectiveness of AI-powered security systems.

By combining technological advancements with social and economic measures, communities can create a more secure environment for public property.

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Here's a breakdown of AI techniques and approaches for theft prevention in public properties, considering both technological and social/economic methods:

AI Techniques:

• Computer Vision (CV):
  • Object Detection and Tracking: Cameras can be used with CV models to detect and track taps, showers, furniture, etc., and raise alerts if they're removed or tampered with.
  • Facial Recognition: (In limited areas where appropriate) In specific areas where theft is a documented problem, facial recognition systems could identify authorized personnel and raise alerts for unauthorized individuals attempting to remove fixtures. However, privacy concerns and ethical considerations need to be addressed carefully.
• Anomaly Detection: AI models can analyze historical sensor data (e.g., water flow in taps) and raise alerts for unusual patterns that might indicate tampering or theft attempts.

Automated Machines and Devices:

• Smart Locks and Alarms: Tamper-proof electronic locks with remote monitoring capabilities can prevent unauthorized access and trigger alarms if forced entry is attempted.
• RFID Tags: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags embedded in furniture or fixtures can be tracked to identify missing items and potentially locate them if stolen.

Social and Economic Measures:

• Community Policing: Increased security presence and community engagement can deter theft.
• Improved Lighting: Well-lit areas are less vulnerable to theft.
• Durable Materials: Using high-quality, theft-resistant materials for fixtures can make them less attractive targets.
• Social Norms Promotion: Public awareness campaigns can promote responsible behavior and discourage theft.

Implementation Challenges:

• Cost: Implementing AI-powered systems and automated machines requires investment.
• Privacy Concerns: Facial recognition and other surveillance technologies raise privacy concerns that need to be addressed ethically and legally.
• Maintenance: These systems require ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure effectiveness.

Combined Approach:

A comprehensive strategy might combine AI for anomaly detection and alerts with security measures like smart locks and improved lighting. Social interventions like community policing and promoting social norms can offer additional deterrence.

Real-Time Implementation:

• AI for Real-Time Monitoring: AI systems can analyze data streams from cameras and sensors in real-time to detect suspicious activity and trigger immediate alerts.
• Social Interventions for Long-Term Impact: Social and economic measures can have a long-term impact on reducing theft rates by addressing root causes.

Important Note:

While AI and automation offer valuable tools, they shouldn't be seen as a silver bullet. A layered approach that combines technology with social and economic interventions is likely to be most effective in preventing theft in public properties.

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AI Techniques for Anti-Theft in Public Property

While complete theft prevention is impossible, AI can be a valuable tool in deterring and mitigating theft in public places. Here's a breakdown of potential approaches:

AI Techniques:

• Computer Vision (CV):

  • Object Detection: Cameras can be used with CV to detect missing fixtures (taps, showerheads) in real-time, triggering alerts.
  • Facial Recognition (Optional): In some cases (restricted access areas), facial recognition can identify authorized personnel, potentially flagging unauthorized individuals attempting to remove fixtures.

• Anomaly Detection: AI algorithms can analyze historical sensor data (water flow, pressure) to identify unusual patterns suggestive of tampering or theft attempts.

• Machine Learning (ML):

  • Predictive Maintenance: ML models can predict equipment wear and tear, allowing for timely maintenance and reducing the risk of opportunistic theft of malfunctioning parts.

Natural and Social Techniques:

• Improved Design: Fixtures can be designed with tamper-evident features or made of less valuable materials to deter theft.
• Signage and Awareness Campaigns: Clear signage highlighting the consequences of theft can act as a deterrent.
• Community Policing: Increased security presence and community involvement can discourage theft.
• Improved Lighting: Well-lit areas are less attractive to potential thieves.

AI-powered Machines (Conceptual):

• Smart Cameras with Object Detection: These cameras can continuously monitor for missing fixtures and trigger alerts.
• Automated Alerts and Notifications: Real-time alerts can be sent to security personnel upon detection of anomalies or missing objects.

Implementation Challenges:

• Cost: Implementing AI-powered systems requires investment in cameras, sensors, and computing infrastructure.
• Privacy Concerns: The use of facial recognition, particularly in public spaces, raises privacy considerations. Regulations and responsible implementation are crucial.
• Integration: Integrating AI systems with existing security infrastructure can be complex.

Overall Approach:

A layered approach combining AI techniques, social methods, and improved design practices offers the most effective solution for deterring theft in public properties.

Important Note:

The effectiveness of AI in theft prevention depends on various factors like the type of property, budget, and legal considerations. Always consult with security professionals to develop a comprehensive strategy.

Epic Games on the Softer Side of Making Games

 On September 20th, Epic Games will launch Gears of War 3, that part is not a secret. But the part you might not know is how much mental attitude and team work actually goes into making that game and others like Infinity Blade. Listening to Michael Capps, President, Epic Games talk at the Games Developer Conference Europe, it was evident that it's a lot like Sisyphos throughout the whole process.

Passion seems to be a recurring theme here at GDC Europe. Enric Alvarez from MercuryStream talked about the fun, passion and clarity that made Castelvania Lords of Shadow, Jens Begemann/wooga waxed rhapsodic about how much their developers care about what goes into making a social game and today, Capps talked about Epic's history of delivering a triple-A experience for gamers.

Glossing over the mechanicals of the game, production, budgets and infrastructure, what jumped out was the values he assigned to the making of the popular shoot-em-up game:  attitude and passion for the game were topped the list. However, on the softer side of things, Capps talked about the team's desire to be successful and their pride in the positive responses they get from fans. In the end he says, no matter how much management sets priorities, quality comes from the individual.

The company also announced today they are working on five new game prototypes that center around the PC as the main gaming platform. Boulder at the ready.

AI on what are the different materials that can be used to clear the air pollution and suck them to collect in a container automatically to be resued for other purposes

Clearing air pollution and capturing pollutants for reuse is a complex and challenging task. While there are various technologies and materials under development, no single method can effectively address all types of air pollutants. Here are some materials and technologies that have been explored for air pollution control and pollutant capture:

1. Activated Carbon: Activated carbon is a highly porous material with a large surface area that can adsorb a wide range of pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odorous gases. It is commonly used in air and water purification systems.

2. Zeolites: Zeolites are crystalline aluminosilicate minerals with a porous structure that can selectively adsorb certain gases and pollutants. They are used in industrial applications for gas separation and purification.

3. Scrubbers: Scrubbers are air pollution control devices that use liquid (often water or chemical solutions) to remove pollutants from exhaust gases. They are effective in removing acid gases, particulate matter, and certain volatile compounds.

4. Electrostatic Precipitators: These devices use an electric charge to remove particulate matter from the air. They are commonly used in power plants and industrial facilities to capture fine particles.

5. Catalytic Converters: Catalytic converters contain catalysts that facilitate chemical reactions to convert harmful gases like nitrogen oxides (NOx) into less harmful substances. They are widely used in automotive exhaust systems.

6. Biological Filters: Biofilters use microorganisms to break down and remove organic pollutants from the air. They are used in wastewater treatment plants and certain industrial processes.

7. Nanomaterials: Nanoparticles and nanomaterials, such as nanofibers and nanotubes, have shown promise in capturing and deactivating pollutants due to their high surface area and reactivity.

8. Molecular Sieves: Molecular sieves are materials with precisely sized pores that can selectively adsorb gases and small molecules. They are used in gas separation and drying applications.

9. Plant-Based Solutions: Some plants, known as phytoremediators, can absorb and accumulate certain pollutants from the air. For example, certain types of ferns can absorb heavy metals.

10. Urban Greenery: Increasing green spaces in urban areas can help absorb and filter pollutants from the air. Trees and vegetation act as natural air filters.

11. Advanced Air Purifiers: High-efficiency air purifiers equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, activated carbon, and UV-C light can remove a variety of pollutants from indoor air.

It's important to note that while these materials and technologies can capture pollutants, they often require maintenance and proper disposal of the captured pollutants. The feasibility and effectiveness of capturing and reusing pollutants depend on the specific pollutant, its concentration, and the local air quality conditions. Sustainable solutions often involve a combination of technologies and a holistic approach to air pollution control.

machine with activated carbon, zeolites, scrubbers, electrostatic precipetators, catalytic convertors, biological filters, nanomaterials, molecular sieves, plant based solutions, urban greenery, advanced air purifiers - all in one to clear air pollutants

Creating a single machine that incorporates all the mentioned air pollution control technologies, from activated carbon to advanced air purifiers, in one device is a significant technical challenge. Each of these technologies has specific mechanisms and purposes, and integrating them into a single device would be complex and impractical. However, it's possible to design comprehensive air pollution control systems that combine multiple technologies. Here's a conceptual overview of how such a system might work:

1. Pre-Filtration: The incoming polluted air could first pass through a pre-filtration stage that includes activated carbon and zeolites. These materials can adsorb a range of pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.

2. Scrubbing and Electrostatic Precipitation: The air then enters a scrubber chamber where it is treated with a liquid (such as water) to remove acidic gases. Electrostatic precipitators can be integrated here to remove fine particulate matter.

3. Catalytic Conversion: The air could pass through a catalytic converter, especially if it contains nitrogen oxides (NOx). The catalyst in this stage helps convert harmful gases into less harmful substances.

4. Biological Filtration: Next, the air may pass through a biological filter containing microorganisms that break down organic pollutants. This step can help in removing certain volatile compounds.

5. Nanomaterials and Molecular Sieves: Nanomaterials and molecular sieves could be integrated into the system to capture and deactivate specific pollutants or gases not removed by the previous stages.

6. Plant-Based Solutions and Urban Greenery: Incorporating living plants and greenery within or around the system can further enhance air quality. Plants can help in the absorption of certain gases and particulate matter.

7. Advanced Air Purification: Finally, the air would be passed through advanced air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters, activated carbon, and UV-C light to ensure the removal of fine particles and any remaining pollutants.

Such a system would require sophisticated engineering, control systems, and maintenance to ensure effective operation. Additionally, the specific configuration and components would depend on the types and concentrations of pollutants in the air and the desired level of air quality improvement. Real-world implementations often involve a combination of different technologies tailored to the specific needs of a location or facility.

Tuscany's Enatek Banks on Micro Wind Turbines

 The sun pretty much drives just about everything in Tuscany. It powers the grapes, the olives, and to some extent, it powers the millions of tourists that flock to Tuscany each year.

You think of grapes, ceramics, olives, primi piatti, gelato, art, steep steps that yield beautiful views. But I doubt you think of clean tech.

Deep in the heart of Tuscany, Enatek has busied itself with the future. And future they believe is wind.

They view their prototype Venturebine as the solution to the problem of clean renewable energy in urban areas. Venturebine is a micro wind turbine for urban areas where space is at a premium. Unlike traditional wind turbines that are built on a vertical axis and require high wind speed to generate electricity, Venturebine operates on a horizontal axis, which means you can have multiple units together on one rooftop and produce significant electrical output at low-wind speeds.

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“The wall effect is the increase in wind speed as wind is funneled across the edges of structures,” said Gianluca Cecchetti, CEO and founder of Enatek. “About 75 cm in front of, and 75 cm above the roofline, there is a zone of turbulence triggered by the wall effect that constitutes a significant increase in wind-speed. The Venturbine is custom designed to harvest this increased wind speed.”

Venturebine is a result of the field and wind tunnel research that Enatek undertook to discover how wind reacts with geometric structures in urban areas, walls, buildings, rooftops, etc.  This reminded me of Aiden, the seventh grader who recently won a Young Naturalist Award from the American Museum of Natural History by turning to nature for his inspiration. Aiden looked at a tree and saw the Fibonacci sequence reflected in its branches, leading him to create a more efficient design for solar panel layouts. (read the full story here from his viewpoint) Similarly, Enatek looked at the field research they had and determined that a completely different design was needed for urban wind turbines to be effective.

“The sequencing is electrical, not mechanical, so even at low wind speeds the electrical output is cumulative without any loss due to kinetic transmission,” added Cecchetti.

The Venturebine is lightweight, less than 200 kg per unit and easily mounted onto roof-edges and ridgelines and this also minimizes vibrations and torque on the supporting structure. But, the Venturebine is also small, measuring three meters by 1.7 m for each unit which allows for multiple combinations across a single roofline.

I wonder what Don Quixote would make of this.