Researchers to investigate how technology can improve life at home

Researchers at the University of Exeter have secured funding to further understand how technology can support healthy and happy lives. 

The Smartline project is a collaborative project between researchers, communities and businesses with the aim being to understand how people use technology in their homes.

The project began in 2017 when the researchers received funding from the European Union and on Tuesday (February 11), the researchers secured a further £4m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund, with match funding from partners and an additional contribution from Cornwall Council of £200,000.

This funding will allow the researchers to extend the project for a further three years.

The research involves approximately 300 Coastline Housing customers in the Camborne, Pool, Illogan and Redruth area of Cornwall.

In each house, there are sensors measuring air quality, humidity, temperature, water and energy use, and then this data is coupled with in-depth surveys to help understand people’s wellbeing needs, aspirations and their desires for the community.

The researchers also work with small and medium-sized enterprises across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to develop new technology-based products and services that meet the health and wellbeing needs of the communities.

During the first phase, over 170 enterprises benefitted from the project.

Prof Karyn Morrissey, who will head the next phase of research said: ‘We have been gathering hard data and insights from people and from sensors in their homes for three years and I’m excited to translate that information into new ways of improving peoples lives.’

Cllr Rob Rotchell, Cornwall council cabinet member for adult social care said: ‘I have been fascinated to learn about what the Smartline team have been doing so far, and like them, I’m keen to see now how we can start to see impact on the ground and how we can use the data and insights to help us as we develop policy for both health and housing.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay