Technology Archive

Augmented Reality at the Consumer Level

By
Nick Carson
Published: January 18, 2010
Augmented Reality at the Consumer Level

Continuing with another article I have written for my bi-weekly column in the Warrington Times (UF student run business newspaper):

Augmented Reality at the Consumer Level

By Nick Carson - Published Issue 5, 16th Nov’09

The military has uses for it, as does TV and their associated advertisers. The real question, however, is whether augmented reality can become useful for the average consumer.

Augmented reality is the use of computer generated images and information overlaid on a view of the physical world.

All of us have been exposed to it at some point. Football broadcasts are a prime example of the use of augmented reality. The yellow line denoting the first down marker is overlaid on the playing field to “augment” the view of the game. Of course, you won’t see this if you actually go to the game.

Broadcasts also overlay advertisements directly onto both the field and surrounding environment as a cheap alternative to physically printing the image. The military also employs the use of augmented reality by using HUD’s (Heads Up Displays) and HMD’s (Helmet Mounted Displays) to display tactical information directly to aircraft pilots.

Consumer level applications could be next as the demand grows for enhanced information-based systems. We have already seen several iPhone applications break into this new market. One of these is “Monocle”, a new feature of Yelp’s app, a service to find and review businesses. Monocle uses GPS and the compass to locate where a user is and to display markers and information about locations as you look through the iPhone’s camera. However, looking through a phone is a very clunky way of using the technology. It’s likely that a more advanced method of viewing our physically space will be needed.

Advances in wearable displays could realize the full potential of augmented reality. Embedding displays within glasses or contact lenses would provide for a permanent visual solution to look through. This kind of accessibility could pave the way for what will be a revolution in the way we experience our world.

Consumers would have a variety of opportunities to incorporate this technology into their everyday lives. With a visual display pointing out areas of interest to the user, even walking down the street would be a new experience. The augmented reality could be used to identify passing faces of friends and contacts, displaying their name and relevant information on demand.

Advertisers might also attract customers to their products via a whole new dimension of advertising. Imagine walking through Wal-Mart, wearing the embedded display glasses, picking up a product off the shelf and a video instantly plays to highlight its features. Augmented reality would be highly customizable, allowing the consumer to choose exactly what they wish to see when viewing the world.

Another important aspect of this technology is its ability to replace physical displays and input devices. With just your one pair of embedded display glasses, any location or object could be a virtual display. Why buy a TV when you could project a virtual one on your wall or desk? Products of the future could be controlled by visual cues overlaid on an object, allowing you to press and manipulate these virtual controls that exist only within augmented reality.

We’re not talking sci-fi here: all of these technologies exist and are currently in development.  Given time to mature, the right companies will take up the challenges of integrating these technologies. Augmented reality will permeate into each of our lives to redefine what it is to view an information based world.

The New Wave of Cloud Computing

By
Nick Carson
Published: October 26, 2009
The New Wave of Cloud Computing

Continuing with another article I have written for my bi-weekly column in the Warrington Times (UF student run business newspaper):

The New Wave of Cloud Computing

By Nick Carson - Published Issue 4, 19th Oct’09

The “Cloud” is a metaphor for the internet, and the topic of cloud computing and web based services are quickly becoming a reality. Corporations of all sizes employ a lot of overhead simply to run their IT department. Of course, this is a necessity in order to manage a slew of computers that keep a business on its feet.

From servers to workstations to switches, there is a lot that goes into managing a network within a company. First, there is the initial investment of buying all the hardware and software required, which is followed by the operating costs of employing staff to manage the network and troubleshoot difficulties. Cloud computing alleviates much of the financial strain on companies by providing an external service instead of a dedicated in-house solution.

Currently, computers are purchased and upgraded by physically adding new components to make them faster and installing software locally to make them more usable. With a cloud controlled computing environment, all that would be required is to purchase a sort of terminal, which could be as simple as a monitor attached to a small computer capable of connecting to a network. This terminal connects to a server in the “cloud” and streams an operating system along with its software directly to the user.

With cloud computing, all computation and processing is done remotely on the server, therefore requiring very little processing power on the terminal’s part. Upgrading is simple as requesting more speed and power through the service instead of upgrading hardware locally. Likewise, software is purchased and installed just as easily on that user’s account.

Another beauty of cloud computing is allowing a user access from any terminal. Because terminal requirements are so low, one is just as good as any other. Even computers seen as outdated can utilize the full power of cloud computing, which makes the cost of computing decrease exponentially. The beginnings of the transition to cloud based computing can already be seen through several established and emerging technologies.

Google Docs is a prime example of the transition to cloud computing. If you have not had experience with it already, Google Docs gives you a full featured office suite where you can create and edit word documents, spreadsheets and more. What’s different is that its online and accessed through a web browser. This simplifies the process of moving documents around on disks and flash drives from computer to computer.

Microsoft has taken note of this new wave of web and cloud based services, and is poised to release its flagship Microsoft Office suite as free, web-accessible products. Documents can be created and edited, like Google Docs, and saved on a remote server accessible anywhere. The trend is toward more and more services accessed through the internet.

The infrastructure is not fully there yet to realize cloud computing for everyone. However, it is being slowly implemented within companies to manage the increasing number of computers in a more cost efficient way. Cloud computing is great for business, as it can reduce a lot of the costs in hardware, alleviate data loss problems and provide fewer barriers to entry.

Reading Your Mind, Endless Applications

By
Nick Carson
Published: October 24, 2009
Reading Your Mind, Endless Applications

Continuing with another article I have written for my bi-weekly column in the Warrington Times (UF student run business newspaper):

Reading Your Mind, Endless Applications

By Nick Carson - Published Issue 3, 5th Oct’09

It’s the subject of numerous science fiction movies: the ability for an outside source to access your brain to identify what you are thinking. Scientists, led by Berkeley researchers Jack Gallant and Thomas Naselaris, have developed a method of reconstructing an image produced in your mind purely by tracking neural activity. The method involves using fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging), a specialized type of MRI scan that measures blood flow through the brain. The researchers focused on parts of the brain accountable for processing visual information. By monitoring active parts of the brain responsible for visual processing, they were successfully able to identify images within the brain. Currently, the technology allows researchers to pull an image from a large database that represents what a subject has seen– not quite a full reconstruction method. Through development, the technology is expected to make gains towards reconstructing visual images from scratch. That is where applications will really come into play.

Imagine being able to electronically search for pictures by using your mind. Simply thinking of a random object or a friend/acquaintance could one day produce that image on your personal computer. This could have far-reaching applications for new search platforms by, for instance, allowing you to navigate the web based solely on images produced by your brain. The days of simply thinking about what you want to say and seeing the words appear on a computer may quickly become a reality. In fact, the Bing search engine by Microsoft has already launched a new method of search dubbed “Visual Search”. It allows a user to search the internet by presenting them with a grid of images instead of using the typical text option we are all familiar with. Couple this with technology that allows images to be accessed directly from your brain and you have the ability to interact with the internet via your mind.

This technology could be adapted for a variety of uses. For example, consider the impact on the justice system. Investigations might utilize brain scans that depict the very scene of a crime from the point of view of a witness or culprit.

Image reconstruction may even alter the basic methods of computer operation. Identifying spoken words and language could pave the way for computer controlled interactions. In the near future, simply thinking about words and speech could produce them directly to your computer. The keyboard and mouse have been around since the birth of personal computers as our primary method of input. They remain two of the few technologies yet to be completely revolutionized. These devices are simply middle men in our interactions with computers. We think about words and images and rely on our fingers to produce what we were thinking. These technologies aim to cut out that primitive and inefficient process.

Who will be the new companies to emerge into the technology of computer-brain interactions? Although fully developed technologies might be decades away, the right insight and planning for this revolution could prove valuable. It is to be seen whether current leaders in the market will prepare and invest appropriately or if new, up-and-coming companies will seize the opportunity.

WiTricity will change the Tech Market

By
Nick Carson
Published: September 23, 2009
WiTricity will change the Tech Market

Article I wrote for my bi-weekly column in the Warrington Times (UF student run business newspaper):

View Article @ Warrington Times:
- WiTricity will change the Tech Market

By Nick Carson - Published Issue 1, 14th Sept’09

You’ve probably never heard of it, but there is a new technology that is emerging which could change the dynamics of the technology market in a huge way. It’s called WiTricity, and the concept is simple: Wireless Electricity.WiTricity is a technology developed by a MIT team led by Professor Marin Soljačić and it solves problems we all deal with everyday. We all carry laptops, cell phones and iPods around with us, and we all struggle with the problem of powering these devices.

Imagine now if all these devices could be powered without ever plugging them into an outlet. The technology uses electromagnetic resonance to transfer electricity wirelessly and safely over a distance of several meters. So the next time you come home and set your bag on the counter or sit in class at your desk, WiTricity could be automatically powering or charging your mobile devices. No more plugging in power adapters and messing around with all those cords.

The applications are limitless, everything from mobile electronics to wall mounted TV’s, medical devices, electric cars and more. The benefits are obvious of wireless power to the consumer, making our lives easier and removing some of our everyday headaches. The technology is real and was recently demonstrated in July at the TED Global conference by Eric Giler, CEO of WiTricity.

TED WiTricity Video – Eric Giler

What does this all mean for the technology market and businesses? After WiTricity emerges, we could see a surge in its adoption across many markets. Companies could find themselves incorporating the technology directly into their products to allow consumers the ability to charge or power their devices wirelessly. In addition, they could be utilizing it to reduce costs and increase efficiency within their business. Dell, Apple, HP, Toshiba are all major corporations we could see in the coming years implementing wireless electricity into their mobile devices and laptops. Future versions of the iPhone will no longer ever need to be plugged into an outlet. Netbooks and laptops could throw away those ugly power adapters.

A wave of new products with wireless electricity would force companies to revamp their strategies. Consider the impact it will have on the battery market. Duracell (parent company Proctor and Gamble) and companies alike will need to innovate quickly if they want to stay in business.

With a widespread adoption of WiTricity, two things could happen: First, many products will do away with batteries all together such as remote controls, mice, keyboards- basically anything that stays in your house all the time. Second, mobile products like laptops and cell phones would integrate the technology, with most companies opting to have rechargeable batteries tied directly to the WiTricity component. If major battery companies fail tonotice the impact it could have, they might suffer the same fate as Kodak did when digital cameras first came on the scene.

WiTricity is just one of the many new technological innovations set to make a splash in the tech world in the coming years, possibly eliminating the need for batteries all together.

Will you be using WiTricity in the near future?

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University of Florida Overview

By
Nick Carson
Published: September 13, 2009
University of Florida Overview

gator-logo

I attend the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL. I am going into my 4th year.

I major in Computer Engineering – Software Emphasis. I am also pursuing a minor in Sales Engineering. First, a brief history on my selections, and then a overview of each program, its associated class listing, and a more elaborated reason for selecting these to pursue as an undergrad.

I have been working with computers since a very young age (5-6 years old). I am very adept at computer systems, software, programming and electronics in general. Although I  have taken on many roles pursuing a career in software engineering and IT related positions, it is not my most sought after ambition. Instead, I wish to combine my skills and knowledge in computers and electronics with business. More specifically, I aim to start-up a tech business that deals in either computer systems, software development, electronic devices or web-based services. I believe that as an undergraduate, building a sound foundation of understanding in a particular technical field will be more useful  than just a business degree.

Computer Engineering (Software) – From the UF Engineering Website:

eng-logoThe objectives of the program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering is to provide students with a strong theorectical and practical background in computer hardware and software, along with the engineering analysis, design, and implementation skills necessary to work between the two. A computer engineer is someone with the ability to design a complete computer system from its circuits to the algorithms that run on it. Although one can consider hardware and software separately, a computer engineer must take a more holistic approach. If an electronic device is to be called a computer it must produce mathematically meaningful results. Similarly, any useful theory of computing must be physically realizable. The synthesis of the theory and algorithm which must take place before any useful computing can be achieved is the job of the computer engineer, and to produce such engineers is the mission of the program.

A computer engineer will:

  • Be adept at the fundamental theory and practice of computer science and electrical engineering, as it applies to computer hardware and software
  • Understand all the elements required to design a complete computer system (hardware and software)
  • Understand the interaction between hardware and software
  • Have the analysis, design, and implementation skills necessary to solve problems using computer engineering principles and techniques
  • Understand the ethical, legal, and social issues in the computing discipline, and in the engineering discipline in general.

This program is accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)

- Computer Engineering (Software) Class Listing

The Sales Engineering minor is meant to supplement my engineering knowledge in computers with a set of skills in business, sales and entrepreneurship. Providing fundamentals for business operation and setup. I’m using it as a foundation into future formal business education. It is very similar to other minors such as the Business minor and Entrepreneurship minor.

Sales Engineering – From the UF Engineering Website:

Graduates with the Sales Engineering minor are regarded highly by recruiters for industries seeking sales engineering staff. The minor provides the academic background for careers in sales, managerial and entrepreneurial pursuits. Graduates are more effective communicators. They are trained to promote and market new technologies and related products.

- Sales Engineering Class Listing

Let me elaborate more on my mindset in studying these topics.

Of course, my main interest is to start up a tech business. So why choose a somewhat grueling and technical major such as Computer Engineering? Why not a standard business degree? Well, business majors do learn sound fundamentals of running a business, including current practices and theories. They seem poised to start up a business in a particular market with familiarity and ease. I have a problem with this assumption, because usually this important question should be considered: are you knowledgeable enough about a particular field to create a business around it? You need insight and knowledge in a product’s technical aspects to develop and design successfully. You also need insight into what skills and human resources will be essential to your business. If you don’t possess the technical background needed to develop your particular idea from a technical standpoint, you might be dead in your tracks for a while. Even worse, you could end up investing all your time and money into a business with the wrong ideas and organizational structure; you could leave customers unsatisfied or uninterested.

Introduction to Carson Critique

By
Nick Carson
Published: September 13, 2009
Introduction to Carson Critique

A little about myself:
My name is Nick Carson and I am an undergraduate at the University of Florida currently studying Computer Engineering (Software). I’m an aspiring entrepreneur and hobbyist of all things technology and computer related.

My mind never stops thinking of new ideas to pursue in the future. Business ideas, products and innovations circle my thoughts on a constant basis. My ambition since before I could even remember is to bring together  the right people with the right resources to create a successful enterprise. Aiming to inspire others with  ideas and pursue their development. Each step I take in life propels me toward that goal.

Specializing in computer hardware and software system, I have designed websites, built computer systems, and coded various software applications for research projects. Aside from technical knowledge in my field, I am a highly motivated entrepreneur. I have done freelance work, served as a brand rep for a major corporation, dealt with several start-ups, and pursued various venture opportunities. I look forward to ultimately starting and running my own business in the tech/software market utilizing my technical knowledge and entrepreneurial mindset.


entrepreneurAbout Carson Critique:
This site serves as a resource and discussion of business, computers/technology, college life, and insight into the mindset of an entrepreneur. It also serves to critique the decisions and path taken along the way. I have also provided a look into my current projects, educational endeavors, and job opportunities.

For Prospective Employers/Interested Persons:

  • View my Resume (Updated for Spring 2009)
  • View my Portfolio (Updated for Spring 2009)