Smart Objects

MIT Technology Review has an article about Researchers at Keio University that have embedded sensors in walls to track damage to the structure of a building.

New Scientist and BBC News have an article about a Smart Airline Seat designed by Qinetiq. The seat will contain a number of pressure sensors. Applications could include the detection of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or "unusual behaviour of a passenger", e.g. a nervous terrorists (well, ....).

The BOX System system connects customized cardboard boxes to a wireless network of tangible interfaces and ambient displays. (Thanks to Adrian Friday)

A "smart brick" developed by scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign could monitor a building’s health and save lives.