Possible Uses For OSGi
The OSGi Service Platform is being used for a wide number of different purposes by member companies of the OSGi Alliance.
Examples include the BMW Group implementing OSGi in the new 5 Series car range as part of its ConnectedDrive System. Mobile phone systems from different vendors are also taking up OSGi as a solution to creating small applications that can be installed remotely on a phone regardless of model or manufacturer.
Applications to Home Care
An exciting area of the technology which has some relevance to Home Care Networks is that of OSGi-enabled household devices.
At the forefront of this technology is German company Siemens with its Serve@Home range of kitchen appliances and air conditioning systems that can be operated remotely.
The system works by having a Gateway Unit that is supplied by Siemens. This plugs into the power socket, using any network connections you may have for computers and also the telephone line. Serve@Home appliances use a device much like a modem to allow communication to occur through the power lines within your home (much like the X10 technology). This allows appliances to connect to the Gateway. The Gateway itself accepts communication from remote sources such as your telephone, PDA (electronic organiser) or laptop, therefore allowing the user to set UP the appliances remotely and securely.
This system is the top of the Siemens range. It is currently extremely expensive and only suited to those who are willing to pay for the latest technology. However it does demonstrate what can be achieved with OSGi. Hopefully the near future will provide similar and much more affordable systems that can assist in the home.
