By integration of cognitive properties into technical systems, chances are opening up for developing systems that are able to act as appropriate to the situation. These systems are characterized by not just reacting purely reactively, but by generating actions according to the objective of the technical system and its capabilities. Sensor-actor chains are no longer rigidly coupled, but modifiable. The feasibility of modification results from the learning aptitude. In the focus is the application of cognitive technical systems in the medical sector for supporting the medical treatment and care of dementia-diseased patients. In the course of disease, such persons lose their own cognitive abilities. The objective of product development is, to compensate that lose by means of respective technical systems to extend that the patients' quality of life improves significantly. Because of the abovementioned properties the systems, a number of ethical problems such as the restrictions in arranging ones life and in the patients' self-determination need to be taken into consideration. So results from the high degree of autonomy also the risk of total surveillance of patients. This is in deed desired on the one hand, as the patient's room for manoeuvre can thereby be significantly extended, but on the other hand, a deep cut in the patient's personal rights is coming along with it. Other critical questions result with regard to the safety and reliability provided by such devices. When technical systems are actuated, who is responsible for it, who is bearing responsibility in case of a system failure?     «

By integration of cognitive properties into technical systems, chances are opening up for developing systems that are able to act as appropriate to the situation. These systems are characterized by not just reacting purely reactively, but by generating actions according to the objective of the technical system and its capabilities. Sensor-actor chains are no longer rigidly coupled, but modifiable. The feasibility of modification results from the learning aptitude. In the focus is the app...    »