Research for Civil Security

glOSSaRy23Interdigital structuresLandmarkLow-impedance /high-impedanceSelf-reporting sensorsUbiquitous computingThe term ‘interdigital structure’ refers to a type of construction in which theindividual elements are entwined like interlaced fingers without actuallytouching each other. Interdigital structures are used as delay lines (interdigitallines), for example, or as electrodes of interdigital converters (interdigitaltransducers). In sensory technology, a converter of this type uses acomponent with an interdigital structure to convert measured values. Inso doing, the incoming signals are converted into a measurable electricalsignal.The term ‘landmark’ originally derives from aeronautics and shipping. Itrefers to a conspicuous, often visible topographical object (such as a church,a tower, a mountain, etc) that is either specifically placed for this purpose(navigation marks) or already existent. Such landmarks have played, andcontinue to play, an important role in spatial orientation and navigation.The term ‘low-impedance’ refers to lines of low electrical resistance; theopposite, ‘high-impedance’, refers to a high electrical resistance.Autonomous, wireless, usually passive sensors, which are triggered automaticallywhen an event occurs, whereby the signals detected are automaticallypassed on to a central computer/processing unit.The term ‘ubiquitous computing’ (also known as ‘pervasive computing’ or‘ambient intelligence’) refers to the vision of the omnipresence (ubiquity)of tiny, wirelessly networked computers, which are invisibly integratedin, or attached to, any number of everyday objects. According to this idea,‘intelligent’ objects or devices are completely electronically networked andcapable in some cases of automatically reacting to individual needs andmovements. One example of this is the vision of a house in which roomtemperature adjusts to the needs of the individuals present.