The Intelligent Systems Industry Knowledgebase
This knowledgebase is an ever growing compendium of the trends and climate in the intelligent systems industry, including but not restricted to technology and industry trends and analysis, advances in R&D techniques, collaborative research models, Science and technology policy, and technology roadmaps.
We solicit your input to this knowledgebase: Members of the Precarn network and researchers in general are welcome to suggest and provide relevant documents for posting here. If they meet Precarn Posting criteria, links to commercially available reports and studies may also be posted here by vendors of such material. The reports are grouped in to the following three categories - just click on the title to link to the list of documents currently available:
>Industry Reports and Studies
>Precarn Reports and Studies
>Technology Roadmaps
Industry Reports and Studies
Generally Available Reports and Studies: You are welcome to suggest and provide relevant documents for posting here. Please ensure that you have the necessary copyright authorization to publish a document here.
Commercial Reports and Studies: Links to commercially available reports and studies may also be posted here by vendors of such material, if they meet Precarn posting criteria.
To post a link to or an electronic copy of an industry report or Study>>click here.
Advanced Manufacturing Application Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Integrated Manufacturing Technologies Institute (IMTI) and National Research Council (NRC)
[view document] [see synopsis]
The manufacturing sector consists of establishments engaged in the mechanical, physical, or chemical transformation of materials, substances, or components into new products. The assembling of component parts of manufactured products is considered manufacturing, except in cases where the activity is appropriately classified as construction. Advanced manufacturing can be defined as the insertion of new technology, improved processes, and management methods to improve the manufacturing of products.Report outline: Report Background; Introduction to the Application Sector; State of the Art in the Application Sector; Future Trends Five- to Ten-Years; Canadian Strengths and Opportunities; Recommended Directions; Possible Social and Economic Benefits; Concluding Remarks.>Synopses
Communities and Their Infrastructures Applications Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Doyletech Corporation
[view document] [see synopsis]
The report focuses on three main application areas, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Environment and Infrastructure, and Broadband Systems. Opportunities for R&D are presented for each area and recommended directions that could be taken. Economic and Social Benefits are also discussed for each of the areas. The report is organized into two documents, one a discussion paper that was used to facilitate discussion for the workshop and the final report with the workshop findings. >Synopses
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Precarn Reports and Studies
The following are reports that Precarn has commissioned or sponsored. Use of this material must reflect the copyright of Precarn and its co-sponsors.
Advanced Manufacturing Application Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Integrated Manufacturing Technologies Institute (IMTI) and National Research Council (NRC)
[view document] [see synopsis]
The manufacturing sector consists of establishments engaged in the mechanical, physical, or chemical transformation of materials, substances, or components into new products. The assembling of component parts of manufactured products is considered manufacturing, except in cases where the activity is appropriately classified as construction. Advanced manufacturing can be defined as the insertion of new technology, improved processes, and management methods to improve the manufacturing of products.Report outline: Report Background; Introduction to the Application Sector; State of the Art in the Application Sector; Future Trends Five- to Ten-Years; Canadian Strengths and Opportunities; Recommended Directions; Possible Social and Economic Benefits; Concluding Remarks.>Synopses
Communities and Their Infrastructures Applications Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Doyletech Corporation
[view document] [see synopsis]
The report focuses on three main application areas, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Environment and Infrastructure, and Broadband Systems. Opportunities for R&D are presented for each area and recommended directions that could be taken. Economic and Social Benefits are also discussed for each of the areas. The report is organized into two documents, one a discussion paper that was used to facilitate discussion for the workshop and the final report with the workshop findings. >Synopses
Environmental Monitoring and Control Applications Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Technology Surveys International Inc.
[view document] [see synopsis]
This particular study concerns intelligent systems (IS) applied to environmental monitoring and control. The study was designed to identify and report on the state of the art, trends, Canadian strengths, opportunities for further research, development and commercialization, and conversely, challenges and barriers in this application area. The overall objective was to recommend priorities for future research and development of intelligent systems applied to environmental monitoring and control. >Synopses
Healthcare Applications Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Centre for Health and Policy Studies, University of Calgary
[view document] [see synopsis]
Health care informatics is a unique and challenging field. It represents a convergence of the medical and clinical domains with the information technology sector. Even though information technology has played a vital role in other industries, such as the financial and transportation sectors, information technology has yet to make a similar impact in health care. Although hospitals and health care clinics have employed many variations of health care information systems in the past, currently the intelligent aspect of these systems is extremely limited or altogether non-existent. Report Outline: Introduction to Healthcare Informatics; Healthcare Informatics Intelligent Systems Applications; Social, Economic and Clinical Benefits; Potential Barriers; Canadian Strengths and Opportunities; Future Trends Five- to Ten-Years; Recommended Directions; Recommended Reading; Bibliography. >Synopses
Robotics and Automation for Medical Applications - Labortatory Automation
book / 2005
Author(s): Hickling Arthours Low Corporation
[view document] [see synopsis]
This paper examines laboratory automation. Laboratory automation uses mechanical and computer technologies to perform a scheduled series of tasks that increase the throughput, accuracy, and reliability of laboratory tests. While automation has always excelled in situations that are predictive and repetitive, recent advances in the intelligence of laboratory automation technologies have broadened the situations in which they can be applied. >Synopses
Public Safety and Security Application Study
book / 2005
Author(s): Actenum Corporation with Greenley & Associates Incorporated
[view document] [see synopsis]
The field of Public Safety and Security (PSS) includes a wide variety of areas within the framework of preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation; including national workplace safety, protection of critical infrastructures, and preparation and responses to avian influenza, earthquakes, wildfires, hospital viruses, insect infestations, denial of service attacks, computer viruses, and intentional malice (crime and terrorism). This document presents the results of a study commissioned by PRECARN to investigate the current state- of-the-art of applying Intelligent Systems (IS) technologies in the area of PSS with special attention to Canada, and determine future trends in IS in of potential use for PSS. The objective of the study is to inspire researchers, technology developers, government, private industry and non-government entities involved in PSS to enter discussions and partnerships with the aim of finding practical solutions to some of the complex needs in the PSS sector. >Synopses
Robotics and Automation for Medical Applications - Robotics-Assisted Intervention
book / 2005
Author(s): Hickling Arthurs Low Corporation and CSTAR (Canadian Surgical Technologies & Advanced Robotics)
[view document] [see synopsis]
Canada is considered to be a strong player in robotic intervention due to its top researchers and a number of strong companies. Canadian universities and research laboratories have world-class expertise in robotics, imaging, and human-computer interfaces. Canada’s broadband network infrastructure and skills in video compression and simulation provide an excellent foundation for telemedicine. Our unified healthcare system and efficient approval process is seen as an advantage compared to the United States. Opportunities for Canada in robotics-assisted intervention include its use in remote areas, training, and space. Although technological advances have been significant in the previous decades, the widespread application of robotics in medicine will depend on future advances. Experts participating in this study have identified of recommended directions in robotics systems, system inputs and outputs, instruments and devices, networks, and training. This will require cooperation among industry, academics, hospitals, and government. >Synopses
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Technology Roadmaps
Technology Roadmapping is a planning process driven by the projected needs of tomorrow's markets. It helps companies to identify, select, and develop technology options to satisfy future service, product or operational needs. 
Via the process, companies in a given sector can pool their resources and work together with academia and governments, to look from 2-10 years into the future and determine what their specific market will require. This process is led by industry, and facilitated by government.
Intelligent systems figure prominently in roadmaps for many sectors and technologies. Precarn therefore collaborates with Industry Canada and other organizations in the development and implementation of Technology Roadmaps. Precarn welcomes the opportunity to participate in Technology Roadmaps. Please contact us.
The Industry Canada website is an excellent resource for technology roadmaps undertake in Canada and other jurisdications. For information on Technology Roadmapping or to obtain copies of Technology Roadmaps, visit Industry Canada's business and consumer website, >>click here
If you are aware of a technology roadmap not listed here please let us know>>here.
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Aluminum
book / 2000
Author(s): Réseau Trans-Al inc
[see synopsis] [web link]
The first edition of the Canadian Aluminum Industry Technology Roadmap is the result of a process which lasted nearly one year. To ensure the validity of the roadmap, a rigorous procedure was followed:exhaustive bibliographical review, questionnaires, market surveys, workshops and intensive consultations with close to 100 Canadian sectorial experts.
Aluminium Transformation Technology Roadmap
book / 2006
Author(s): Réseau Trans-Al inc
[see synopsis] [web link]
Thirty-eight needs and opportunities were also selected for their potential to create wealth, reasonable time frames and achievable technical challenges. Appropriation of these recommendations and opportunities by the stakeholders of the aluminium transformation field will allow Canada to step into a leading position.
Bio-based Feedstocks, Fuels and Industrial Products
book / 2003
Author(s): Rick Smith, President and CEO of Dow AgroSciences Canada Inc., Chair of BioProducts Canada Inc.
[see synopsis] [web link]
The objective of the innovation roadmap is to identify technology-based opportunities for utilizing Canada’s abundant bioresources in order to grow the economy while protecting the environment and our quality of life. The roadmap report covers a number of chemical and bioconversion technologies, and identifies both immediate and future markets for the bio-based economy. A recurring theme in this roadmap is that new biotechnologies have the potential to capture economically viable materials and energy from virgin biomass such as primary crops (agricultural, forestry and marine) and from their residual by-products. Another recurring theme is your waste is my feedstock.
Canada's Biorefinery Roadmap: Forestry and Agriculture
book / peanding
Author(s): Industry Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
Canadian Aircraft Design, Manufacturing and Repair & Overhaul
book / 1996
Author(s): Industry Canada, National Research Council, DND
[see synopsis] [web link]
Current and future customer demands for higher performance from their suppliers at lower cost require that Canadian aerospace firms select and implement the right technologies to remain competitive. Technology Road Maps are used internationally to identify and reach consensus on future technology requirements. This is a report of the first Technology Road Map for the Canadian aerospace industry. It was initiated as a pilot project by Industry Canada, specifically for the aircraft design, manufacturing and repair & overhaul sector.
Canadian Biopharmaceutical Industry (under development)
book / 2006
Author(s): Anthony Schincariol, PhD, President, Schincariol & Associates
[see synopsis] [web link]
Canada’s biopharmaceutical industry is a world leader, particularly when our population and economic output are taken into account. Especially impressive is the number of biopharmaceutical companies Canadian scientific entrepreneurs have created. Based on the ‘omics revolution1 a science that is less than 10 years old Canada’s biopharmaceutical industry has created 490 companies and generates $3.8B in revenues.However, the industry is also growing explosively in the US, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, and every nation is vying for investment. As global competition for investment capital intensifies, Canada must succeed not only in company formation but also in enabling new companies to grow in value.
Canadian Fuel Cell Commercialization
book / 2003
Author(s): Fuel Cells Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
The Canadian Fuel Cell Commercialization Roadmap is an industry-led planning process supported by the Government of Canada and facilitated by Industry Canada. Its objective is to accelerate full-scale commercialization of fuel cell technologies by Canadian fuel cell companies. This Roadmap has been developed through the participation, input and assistance of many leaders in industry, government and academia. It represents selecting the strategies and actions that will allow Canadian stakeholders to successfully meet these challenges. The Roadmap reinforces the need for collaboration among government, industry and academia if Canada is to retain its leading position and realize the many economic, social and environmental benefits that fuel cell technology can provide for our country.
Canadian Metal Casting
book / 2000
Author(s): Canadian Die Casters’ Association, American Foundrymen’s Society, and Natural Resources Canada (CANMET)
[see synopsis] [web link]
With the support of the Canadian Foundry Association, the Canadian Die Casters’ Association, various Canadian chapters of the American Foundrymen’s Society, and Natural Resources Canada (CANMET), Industry Canada initiated a series of consultations across Canada in February and March, 1999. Additional group consultations were arranged in December 1999, and individual consultations were conducted with selected foundries and castings buyers in February, 2000 in Canada and the United States.
Forest Operations
book / 1996
Author(s): Forest Engineering Research Institute of Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
The report presents a Road Map for technological innovation, R&D, and technology transfer for forest operations in Canada over the next decade. The map identifies the starting and destination points, discusses the driving forces, presents opportunities for technological improvement, and provides recommendations on the best road to select for the future.
Intelligent Buildings
book / 2002
Author(s): Industry Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
An Intelligent Building is one equipped with the telecommunications infrastructure that enables it to continuously respond and adapt to changing conditions, allowing for a more efficient use of resources and increasing the comfort and security of its occupants. Intelligent Buildings provide these benefits through automated control systems such as:heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning; fire safety; security; and energy/lighting management.
Language Industries
book / 2006
Author(s): Industry Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
The language industry encompasses the sectors that process natural language:translation, interpretation, terminology, localization, dubbing, language training, language technology, information management, and speech processing. The increasing use of the internet throughout the world, the globalization of the economy, as well as the expansion of international commercial exchanges, have fuelled a significant increase in the world demand for language services and techniques. Canada already has a respected research and innovation infrastructure in language technology (computer science, internet, machine translation, management of textual information, call centres, telecommunication, etc.).
Lean Logistics
book / 2003
Author(s): Supply Chain & Logistics Canada (SCL)
[see synopsis] [web link]
The Lean Logistics Technology Roadmap (LLTRM) is an industry lead initiative of Supply Chain and Logistics Canada (SCL) with the support of Industry Canada, Transport Canada and the Ontario Government. The report reflects the views of the Steering Committee and the Working Group within the specific selected sectors. It aims to assess technologies, innovations and conditions that have the greatest impact on the logistics sector and to develop an action plan for industry, academia and government.
Lumber and Value-Added Wood Products
book / 2000
Author(s): Forintek Canada Corp.
[see synopsis] [web link]
This Roadmap, developed by Forintek Canada Corp. in consultation with the lumber industry and its major partners, is designed to offer the industry and its stakeholders various technology-related targets to guide its continuing progress over the next 10 to 15 years. It was requested and funded by Industry Canada and by the provincial governments of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick.
Marine and Ocean Industry
book / 2003
Author(s): Industry Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
Canada is a maritime country. Eight provinces and three territories all border on salt water. Many pressures and demands are being placed on Canada's ocean and marine environment. Traditional sectors such as fishing, shipbuilding and water transportation are being joined by other uses including offshore oil and gas, aquaculture, recreational fishing, pleasure boating and eco-tourism. The marine and ocean industries contribute $20 billion annually to the Canadian economy and add up to 350,000 part time and full time jobs, especially in coastal communities. The dynamics of the ocean economy have been changing rapidly. The application of science and technology to increase the productivity and success of ocean-related industries impacts on both the ocean economy and the social fabric of coastal communities. Technological innovation is an essential part of business success and leads to improved international competitiveness. The oceans are becoming more important both economically and environmentally. A recent extension of national jurisdictions to Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) in coastal waters, the awareness of potential scientific and technological advances and the opportunity to commercialize on these ideas are giving rise to new marine economies, all of which make this roadmap necessary.
Medical Imaging
book / 2001
Author(s): Industry Canada
[see synopsis] [web link]
The vision driving the Medical Imaging TRM is to improve patient care and enhance the global competitiveness of the Canadian medical sector by strengthening technology development, diffusion and adoption. The goal is to provide private and public sector decision makers with a forecast of technology needs, tied to market demands for improved patient care, that they can use to guide product development, investment, training and other policy decisions.
Wood-Based Panel Products
book / 1998
Author(s): Forintek Canada Corp.
[see synopsis] [web link]
The Canadian wood-based composite panel industry has experienced dramatic growth over the past 50 years, and its current contribution to net exports makes it a significant component of Canada’s economic success. It also represents a substantial factor in this country’s rural economy. This remarkable development results from a unique combination of forest resources and technological innovation giving birth to a variety of products which responded to the requirements of major markets, especially in North America, Europe and Japan. As markets become more demanding, global competition more aggressive and traditional wood resources less abundant, only technological innovation will allow the Canadian composite panel industry to maintain and improve its position. The Roadmap, developed by Forintek Canada Corp., in consultation with the wood composite panel industry and its major partners, is designed to offer the industry and its stakeholders various technology-related targets to guide its continuing progress over the next 10 to 15 years.
Integrated Manufacturing Technology (USA)
book / various
Author(s): Integrated Manufacturing Technology Initiative
[see synopsis] [web link]
The IMTI team has applied a structured methodology (see the figure below) to develop technology roadmaps that identify the "Grand Challenges" and define specific goals and requirements to meet the defined needs of the national manufacturing infrastructure. The first step was to conduct a broad-based survey of the national manufacturing community for each technology area. This provided input for the IMTI participants to start mapping near- and long-term needs, and to identify solution approaches to meet those needs. The team then conducted a focused workshop for each technology area to define time-based goals, requirements, and tasks for R&D to address the high-priority, cross cutting needs of the nation s manufacturers and manufacturing infrastructure.
International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors
book / 2007
Author(s): International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors
[see synopsis] [web link]
The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors is sponsored by the five leading chip manufacturing regions in the world: Europe, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. The sponsoring organizations are the European Semiconductor Industry Association (ESIA), the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA), the Korean Semiconductor Industry Association (KSIA), the Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA), and the United States Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA). The objective of the ITRS is to ensure cost-effective advancements in the performance of the integrated circuit and the products that employ such devices, thereby continuing the health and success of this industry.
International Micro-Nano Roadmap (2nd Edition)
book / 2004
Author(s): Micro & Nano Technology Commercialization Education Foundation (MANCEF)
[see synopsis] [web link]
Today we have commercial MEMS and Nano solutions that are increasingly expected to provide more value as they replace traditional commercial solutions. Whether it is Nanotubes based computers or MEMS devices that sense, think, act, communicate and/or navigate them are running into both technological nay-sayers and the resistance that is experienced by any product requiring end-user behavioral change. MEMS and Nano devices today are acting more and more to revolutionize the markets and industries in which they find applications. These technologies have passed through many of the steps and the time required of a technology base to emerge as an industrial base.
Chemical Industry Roadmaps (Multiple)
book / Various
Author(s): Chemical Industry Vision 2020 Technology Partnership
[see synopsis] [web link]
The Vision anticipated the chemical industry's future technology needs based on current and anticipated market and consumer requirements. Roadmaps provide a chronological path to towards achieving the Vision. During workshops, industry experts identify the goals, technical challenges, and priority R&D needs for a specific area. Roadmaps are the culmination of one or more workshops and an extensive industry review process to build consensus among stakeholders. Progress towards achieving the goals is monitored over time. To date, twelve roadmaps have been published.
