LAB FOR COOPERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ADVANCED CONTROL SYSTEMS
NASAAdnan
   
 

 

MORUS - UNMANNED SYSTEM FOR MARITIME SECURITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING


     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

Morus

The MORUS project focuses on designing a multi-agent system prototype that integrates an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) for autonomous, cooperative missions in environmental monitoring, border surveillance, and port security. In a dynamic and unpredictable environment, the project developed novel cooperative control algorithms, enabling the UAV and UUV to operate as a cohesive multi-agent system capable of autonomous deployment, redeployment, and data exchange in remote, open-sea conditions.Central to the project was the creation of advanced algorithms for multi-agent systems that facilitated real-time cooperation between the UAV and UUV, addressing challenges posed by uncertain and rough environments. The UAV’s enhanced autonomy, along with an innovative docking mechanism and visual feedback-based gripping algorithm, allowed it to transport and redeploy the UUV with minimal human intervention. By integrating these cooperative control strategies, the MORUS project made substantial advancements in multi-agent system algorithms, demonstrating new capabilities for coordinated UAV-UUV operations in real-world applications.

Name: Unmanned system for maritime security and environmental monitoring
Acronym: MORUS
Funding scheme: NATO Science for Peace Programme
Total budget: 834,929.00 EUR
Total budget for UNSA-ETF: 100,000.00 EUR
Start and end dates: 10/04/2015 - 28/02/2019
Project lead on behalf of UNSA-ETF: Prof Adnan Tahirovic
Project website: http://fer.hr/morus
Project partners: Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing Zagreb (Croatia), University of Limerick (Ireland), University of Dubrovnik (Croatia)
Relevant fields:
Optimal control, Multi-agent systems, Machine learning

     
 

AeroSTREAM - STREANGTHENING RESERACH AND INNOVATION EXCELLENCE IN AUTONOMOUS AERIAL SYSTEMS

 
     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

multi-agent systems

Strengthening Research and Innovation Excellence in Autonomous Aerial Systems - AeroSTREAM is a Horizon Europe CSA project funded by the EU through the HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ACCESS-05 program, running from 1 July, 2022 till 30 June 2025. The primary goal of the project is to enhance the research and innovation capacities of higher education institutions from widening countries (wHEIs), specifically from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The specific field of interest is in autonomous robotic systems, with a focus on multi-agent systems based on autonomous aerial vehicles and their applications in agriculture, forestry, and logistics. The project also aims to establish a long-term, sustainable collaboration between project participants and their local partners. Participating ganisaions include leading international higher education institutions from Spain, the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands. The project effort is further supported through close cooperation with FADA-CATEC and the Technological Corporation of Andalusia, leading European organizations recognized for their strong research and innovation capabilities.

Name: Strengthening Research and Innovation Excellence in Autonomous Aerial System
Acronym: AeroSTREAM
Funding scheme: EU HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ACCESS-05 programme
Total budget: 1,995,700.00 EUR
Total budget for UNSA-ETF: 138,500.00 EUR
Start and end dates: 1/7/2022 - 30/6/2025
Project lead on behalf of UNSA-ETF: Prof. Adnan Tahirovic
Project website: https://aerostream.fer.hr/
Project partners:University of Zagreb (Croatia), Universidad de Sevilla (Spain), Technological Corporation of Andalusia - CTA (Spain), Advanced Center for Aerospace Technologies - CATEC (Spain), Czech Technical University in Prague - Faculty of Electrical Engineering (Czech Republic), Innovation Center Nikola Tesla (Croatia), Prostar Labs (Croatia), Universiteit Twente (Netherlands), Fly4Future (Czech Republic), Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands)
Relevant fields: Mobile robotics, AI, Multi-agent systems, Reinforcement learning, Optimal control, Network systems

     
 

MARBLE - MARITIME ROBOTICS IN BLUE ECONOMY

 
     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

multi-agent-blueEconomy

The MARBLE project aims to elevate competencies and skills in multi-agent systems in maritime robotics applications within the blue economy through the development of an innovative joint master’s program titled “MARBLE – Maritime Robotics in Blue Economy.” This initiative involves implementing joint training programs organized by a consortium of universities, research institutions, business clusters, and a digital innovation hub. The MARBLE project’s objectives include establishing a collaborative network of academic and industry partners focused on skill enhancement and capacity building in maritime robotics for the blue economy. This network hosts a series of networking events, study visits, educational methodology seminars, and knowledge transfer sessions, offering participants insights into best practices within the field. Additionally, the project seeks to advance knowledge and skills in sustainable blue economy practices within the Adriatic-Ionian region. Through specialized training courses and a hackathon centered on blue economy challenges, the project promotes innovative, technology-driven solutions. Finally, MARBLE will prepare the documentation necessary to establish a joint Master’s program in maritime robotics for the blue economy. This includes accreditation documents, a comprehensive curriculum, administrative guidelines, and a framework for university collaboration and student mobility.

Name: Maritime Robotics in Blue Economy
Acronym: MARBLE
Funding scheme: EU Interreg Adrion Program, IPA 2
Total budget: 1,099,425.00 EUR
Total budget for UNSA-ETF:  141,590.00 EUR
Start and end dates: 2/1/2023 – 30/9/2023
Project lead on behalf of UNSA-ETF: Prof Adnan Tahirovic
Project website: https://marble.adrioninterreg.eu/
Project partners: University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (Croatia), University of Trieste (Italy), Maritime Technology Cluster FVG S.c.a.rl. (Italy), National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics OGS (Italy), National technical University of Athens NTUA (Greece), University of Montenegro, Digital innovation hub (DIH) Agrifood (Croatia)
Relevant fields: Mobile robotics, AI, Machine learning, Multi-agent systems, Reinforcement learning, Optimal control

     
 

HUMAN BRAIN MODELING

 
     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

HumanBrain

This project seeks to develop an advanced model of the human brain by integrating brain measurements with computational tools, specifically focusing on multi-agent systems, network flow algorithms, graph theory, and graph neural networks. Using multi-agent systems as a foundational approach, the project aims to interpret the brain's complex network dynamics, simulating neural interactions as coordinated agents that represent distinct functional regions. This multi-agent perspective enables a deeper exploration of how various brain states—such as attention, rest, and cognitive processing—emerge and transition based on measurable neural activity. By modeling brain function as a system of interacting agents, each representing specific neural circuits, we can better understand the underlying patterns and connectivity within the brain. Network flow algorithms and graph neural networks play a central role in capturing these dynamic relationships, identifying how certain pathways correspond to distinct cognitive states. This innovative approach not only advances our understanding of neural interactions but also opens new avenues for detecting and differentiating between brain states through data-driven, agent-based modeling. Ultimately, this research could inform the development of advanced tools for brain health monitoring, while enhancing cognitive function through a sophisticated multi-agent view of brain networks.

Name: Human Brain Modeling (current stage: research grant preparation)
Funding scheme: Visiting research position, Imperial College London
Project lead: Prof. Adnan Tahirović
Project supported by: Imperial College London, Brain Science Department, Bioengineering Department, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Start and end dates: 2018, 2019, 2024 - To date
Relevant fields: Computational neuroscience, Multi-agent systems, Machine learning, AI

     
 

DECODING HUMAN BRAIN SPELLING

 
     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

HumanBrain

The project addresses decoding human brain spelling intentions using P300 signals. It introduces an innovative algorithm for enhancing the spatial distribution analysis of the P300 component within event-related potentials (ERPs) using EEG measurements, a vital tool in neurophysiology for assessing cognitive function. This approach employs Independent Component Analysis (ICA) to isolate P300 signals from multiple target epochs, creating a personalized spatial distribution template for each user. This customized averaging technique reduces noise and improves signal reliability, enhancing the accuracy of P300 detection and extraction. The algorithm achieves rapid convergence after processing only a few target epochs, making it highly adaptable without requiring extensive training data. The improved precision in P300 detection is particularly beneficial for applications such as brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), where spatial filtering is essential, advancing both diagnostic and therapeutic uses in cognitive and neurological health.

Name: P300 Spelling Algorithm
Funding scheme: Fellowship, Politecnico di Milano
Start and end dates: 2008-2009
Project lead: Adnan Tahirovic
Relevant fields: Computational neuroscience, Multi-agent systems, Machine learning, AI

     
 

OPTIMAL CONTROL FOR GLUCOSE REGULATION

 
     
 

PROJECT ABSTRACT:

This project investigates the application of advanced control methods in biological systems, focusing on the development and implementation of a closed-loop artificial pancreas system for diabetes management. The artificial pancreas is designed to maintain glucose levels within safe boundaries, through continuous insulin delivery regulated by a control algorithm. By adjusting insulin dosing based on real-time blood glucose measurements, this system offers an effective, patient-friendly solution to glucose control.The project reviews various modeling approaches and control algorithms for biological systems, with a particular focus on the artificial pancreas. Key components are analyzed, including mathematical models that describe glucose-insulin dynamics and control algorithms currently implemented or under development. An augmented minimal model of the glucose-insulin system was utilized to implement Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC), with a glucose disturbance model serving as a foundation. NMPC was implemented in MATLAB using the Gpops toolbox, which applies pseudospectral methods to solve optimal control problems. Through multiple simulations with different control strategies, the project demonstrates the effectiveness of NMPC in managing glucose levels. These findings provide valuable insights for advancement of artificial pancreas systems and lay the groundwork for further research.

Name: Advanced Control Strategies for Artificial Pancreas Systems: Implementing Nonlinear Model Predictive Control for Optimized Glucose Regulation
Project lead: Prof. Adnan Tahirović
Relevant fields: Optimal control, Machine learning, AI