Table 4.
Summary of characteristics of classical and contemporary smart environments.
| Dimension | Classical Smart Environment | Contemporary Smart Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Reliance on wired systems with limited inter-device communication | Extensive use of wireless technologies, especially IoT, facilitating seamless connectivity and communication between devices, including digital twin mirroring |
| Automation | Basic automation systems with predefined commands | Advanced automation driven by AI and machine learning, adapting to user behavior and preferences |
| Data Analysis | Limited data processing capabilities | Utilizing AI and ML for sophisticated data analysis, enabled by digital twin synchronization for predictive insights and optimizations |
| Remote Monitoring | Minimal remote monitoring capabilities | Remote monitoring powered by IoT and digital health technologies, enhanced by digital twin for holistic view |
| User Independence | Limited user autonomy and customization | Empowerment of users through personalized, adaptive systems, promoting independence |
| Real-Time Interaction | Restricted real-time interactions | Seamless real-time interactions, especially in healthcare and smart home settings |
| Emergency Response | Basic emergency response features | Swift and intelligent emergency responses, facilitated by location-based services and IoT |
| Integration Complexity | High integration complexity and limited interoperability | Improved interoperability, but with increased complexity due to the diversity of devices and systems |
| Privacy and Security | Limited security protocols | Strong security tackles privacy concerns, but new challenges emerge with the ever-growing number of connected devices |
| User-Friendliness | Basic interfaces with limited user-friendliness | Intuitive interfaces designed for user convenience and ease of interaction |
| Scalability | Limited scalability | Scalable systems that can accommodate a growing number of devices and users |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Consideration of cost, often limited by technology constraints | Varied cost-effectiveness, with a broader range of affordable options and high-end solutions |
| Flexibility and Adaptability | Limited flexibility in system adaptation | Adaptive systems catering to diverse user needs and preferences |
| Overall Impact | Incremental impact on lifestyle and efficiency | Transformative impact, reshaping living and working spaces and redefining healthcare delivery |