Keynotes

Control Systems, Robotics, and the Neurosciences: A New(?) Convergence 

Prof Antonio Bicchi, Centro E. Piaggio, University of Pisa, Italy

ABSTRACT

Since its relatively recent birth, control systems theory has reached outstanding results in the understanding of feedback systems and in the design of effective solutions for an enormous variety of applications, substantially contributing to the improvement of the quality of life of citizens.  What are the new challenges to progress further? Many agree that a crucial one is the ability to cope with complexity, as it arises e.g. in the domains of life and social sciences. In the endeavour of understanding, regulating, and even replicating natural systems and social organizations, an enormous potential resides in the combination of powerful analytical tools and ideas and inspiration that comes from studies in the neurosciences.

In this talk I will present some examples of how this process can work, reporting on few case-studies, mainly from Robotics, where a fruitful multidisciplinary collaboration has led to interesting insight and technological solutions. The talk will however focus mostly on open questions and discussion points. 

Ford Applink and Open Source SmartDeviceLink

ABSTRACT 

Dr. Oleg Gusikhin, Ford Research & Advanced Engineering

Title of presentation: TBA

Dr. Gusikhin is a recipient of two Henry Ford Technology Awards, 2009 Institute of Industrial Engineers Transactions Best Application Paper Prize, and 2011 INFORMS Daniel H. Wagner Prize finalist. He published over 60 peer-reviewed papers, holds three patents, is an editor of four books, and a co-author of over 20 patent applications on advanced vehicle telematics technology. He is a Program co-chair of the International Conference on Informatics in Control, Robotics and Automation, Industry Vice-Chair of IFAC Technical Committee "Manufacturing Modeling for Management and Control,” and a Lecturer in the Industrial and Operations Engineering department at the University of Michigan.