The research interests of Tampere University of Technology
Automation Science and Engineering
ReUse - Reuse of design solutions in automation
ReUse improves collecting and management of design knowledge and concrete solutions in process and factory automation design. The project is realized as two Tekes-funded joint-projects, a research project (ReUse-R) and a development project for the participating companies (ReUse-I). Research partners in the project are TTY, VTT and Aalto University, and company partners: Metso Automation, Metso Paper and Konecranes. Principal investigator: professor Seppo Kuikka, project manager: researcher Timo Vepsäläinen. Funding: Tekes, research partners and company partners and duration: 1.5.2011 – 31.12.2013.
PowerBonds
The objective of the project is to increase understanding on the role of the strength in the paper performance in end-use applications and take steps towards reducing grammage based on this understanding. The project is a part of ERA-NET WoodWisdom-Net2 Research Programme and it puts together academic and industrial expertise in mechanical and chemical fibre modifications, multi-scale modelling models, microscopy and microrobotic characterization tools from five European countries. TUT develops methods to measure the strength of individual fiber bonds in high throughput.
FIBAM
The project develops new methods to better understand the properties of wood derived fibers and muscle fibers in a human heart. The approach in the project is to use microrobotics, i.e automatic instruments which can precisely manipulate and measure properties of individual microscopic objects.
ReDia - Ready-to-use Microfluidic Cartridges for Affordable Point-of-care Diagnostics
The objective of this collaborative Finnish-Indian project is to develop rapid tests for the detection of heart infraction and tuberculosis. ASE develops automatic microfluidic technologies for on-chip liquid handling.
ECNANOMAN
The project is a part of International Research Staff Exchange Programme (IRSES) in FP7. The goal is to establish a long-term research cooperation platform between Europe and China. The objective is achieved by means of staff exchange between the partners of EU and China in the areas of nano handling, assembly and manufacturing technologies. The project includes four participants from Europe (Germany, Finland, Denmark, France) and five from China.
Service oriented automation for efficient rock and ore exploitation - SOREX
Automation solutions for more efficient and optimized ore exploration, mineral analysis, crushing and concentration are developed in this project. The objective is to speed up and complete mineral analysis and ore body location with new measurement techniques, to improve the energy and material efficiency of crushing using advanced measurement and control solutions, and to utilize dynamic process simulations for supporting the decision making of human operators in mineral concentrators. The methods can be further refined to be part of the products and services of the Finnish companies operating in the field of mining and minerals processing. Project manager: Matti Vilkko and responsible project leader is Kai Zenger (Aalto). Financie: Tekes (Green Mining tutkimusohjelma), Outotec (Finland) Oy, Pyhäsalmi Mine Oy, Metso Minerals, Agnico-Eagle Kittilä, FQM Kevitsa Mining Oy, Mine On-Line Service, IMA Engineering. Duration 1.1.2012 - 31.12.2013.
Human operator modelling and performance evaluation - HOPE
In development of intelligent human adaptive machines, two important problems are human skill evaluation and human operator modelling. In real-life mobile working machines, the task and objectives of the operator vary and cannot typically be measured directly. Moreover, the machines typically lack the measurements of important variables. The previous research has shown that despite the lacking measurements the above described challenges can be solved. The aim of HOPE project is to develop human operator modelling and skill evaluation theories which take into account the incomplete information available from working machines. The theories will be validated using operation data from real industrial machines and simulation experiments. The theories and methods developed in the project are applied in Data to Intelligence (D2I) research project co-ordinated by Tivit-SHOK. Responsible project leader Matti Vilkko, Financie: Suomen Akatemia and duration 1.1.2013 - 31.12.2015
Civil Engineering
Improving energy efficiency of housing stock: impacts on indoor environmental quality and public health in Europe - INSULAtE
INSULAtE-project aims to demonstrate how energy improvements impact on indoor environmental parameters and occupant health, and to develop a protocol for assessment of the impacts. During the project, field studies will be done in 2-3 European countries. From Finland, project partners include National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) coordinates the project, and is responsible for health studies, and Tampere University of Technology (TUT) is responsible for building related studies. From Lithuania, Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) is responsible for exposure assessment. The responsible party at Tampere University of technology is Structural engineering, project leader professor Ralf Lindberg. The project group includes: senior researcher Mihkel Kiviste, researcher Anu Aaltonen and researcher Virpi Leivo. Project is co-financed by EU Life+ -funding, which covers 50% of the budget. Part of the funding comes from Finnish Energy Industries. Other private sector partners include Skanska and SG Rakennustuotteet Ltd. Schedule of the project 8/2010-6/2015.
User- and business-based retrofitting concept - KLIKK
The main objective of the project is to develop a user-oriented industrial, economic and efficient overall concept for suburb apartment buildings for retrofitting, expanding and construction of additional floors. Fire regulations were changed in spring 2011 in Finland and the concept now takes advantage of them by exploring the possibility to use wooden structures in high-rise buildings. The concept creates possibilities to move from cost-based project management to a new service- and user-based business operation. The project creates an “all-inclusive” business model that incorporates all the necessary suppliers and allows different technical solutions for individual cases. Construction work is carried through with the help of network business model. The research project is coordinated by Oulu University. For the part of Tampere University of Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, Assistant Professor Juha Vinha works as a project leader. Research Assistant Anssi Laukkarinen works as a project manager. The project is funded by the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation. Tekes and the companies and cities involved in the project.Duration of the project is 1.1.2012‒30.6.2014.
SINGLE - Housing pricing models and the impact of housing preferences of the growing number of single person households
Housing preferences that drive value vary within the population. Researchers have studied the impact of some demographic trends on housing preferences and demand in recent years, such as aging of population. However, not very much attention in social science has been given to another demographic change, a diminution of household size. The average household size in the entire EU was 2.4 in 2007. Finland is typical for the EU. In 2008, the average household size was 2.09 and it is forecasted to continue to shrink to 1.92 in 2025. Already 41 % of all Finnish households are single person households. Because the number of single person households is increasing significantly and these households exhibit high mobility rates, their behavior will influence the housing market. To examine this influence, researchers should consider several questions. Accountable Manager and Project Manager is Dr Tanja Tyvimaa. This project is funded by Academy of Finland 1.9.2012-31.8.2015.
SEVERI - Finns move, but where and why? Behavior models of residents when choosing an apartment
The primary objective of the study is to clarify variables that influence Finns’ choice of apartments. The study examines the fundamental reasons for mobility, housing expectations, and influences on housing decision-making such as children, friends and lifestyle. In the study, similarities and differences of resident groups are compared. Furthermore, it is clarified why residents age 50 and older do not choose age-restricted apartments. The secondary objective of the research is to study housing marketing and determine if there are differences between older and younger customers’ expectations that would affect the attractiveness of housing offerings to each segment. Accountable Manager / Project Manager is Dr Tanja Tyvimaa. This project is funded by The Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation and four Finnish companies: Lemminkäinen Talo Ltd., YH Länsi Ltd, Jykes Kiinteistöt/Vitapolis, Pohjola Kiinteistösijoitus Ltd 1.9.2011 – 31.12.2013.
Built Environment Process Re-engineering (PRE) and Simulation platform for IFC based technologies and solutions(BIMCity)
BIMCity work package aims at defining and creating a common functional environment for land use and construction databases, establishing information model as a way of conduct in land use planning, (e.g. building inspection, planning, interaction with concerned parties), improving exchange of information between different sectors of planning and thus accelerating processes concerning land use and developing an open environment for business concepts serving land use and construction. Program Manager Johanna Kuusisto, VTT, work package manager Anssi Savisalo, FCG Oy and responsible person (TUT) Jarmo Laitinen. Sponsors by RYM Oy and Tekes 1.1.2010-31.12.2013.
Methodology to integrate energy efficiency, safe moisture performance and indoor environment quality in building renovation projects - ENERSIS
The main objective of the project is to develop a methodology to assist the decision-makers in the renovation process. The methodology helps to evaluate the present state of the building and to set priorities for different needs in the renovation project. The challenge in renovation process is how to identify the essential things that have to renovated and to what extent, and how the suitable and adequate energy efficiency improvements can be incorporated. The starting point is to identify and acquire the additional relevant information needed in the renovation process. The research project is coordinated by VTT. For the part of TUT, Assistant Professor Juha Vinha works as a project leader and Project Researcher Paavo Kero works as a project manager. The project is funded by the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation Tekes and the companies and cities involved in the project. Duration of the project is 1.10.2010‒30.9.2013.
Evaluation of the government subsidized mould-renovations
In moisture related renovations the better probability of success can achieved by demanding the proper investigations and planning before the building project - which are the key factors and how are those included in the subsidy procedure by finnish government? The previous study (Kero P., 2011) found, that the building process of the municipal real estates is often unsuccessful. In 2012 finnish government granted the supplementary budget for indoor air renovations, but demanded that the condition investigations of the building and the planning and the quality control of the project must be done properly. A survey team was set to evaluate the applications, but the goal in the future is a homing procedure with less interference by third party. This research aims to study the effectiveness of the survey process and the success of the selected renovations. The meaning of the project is not only to allocate the subsidy for the good projects, but also increase the probability of the success for all the other municipal renovations. These renovations are financed by the ratepayers, so the target is to avoid start-ups and executions of the wrongly chosen level and methods of the repairing, caused by the insufficient preliminary preparations. Project manager is Jommi Suonketo. The project is funded by Ministry of Education and Culure, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and TUT. Duration of the project is 10/2012 – 12/2013.
User-oriented development of sound insulation in buildings - ÄKK
The aim of the project User-oriented development of sound insulation in buildings ÄKK is to create optimal descriptors, considering the subjective experience, in collaboration with the COST network. The aim is to identify which factors influence the disturbance of noises the most. The aim is to develop models which show how the experienced noise impact depends on the level of noise. The aim is not to tighten the requirements but to make requirements reasonable and to improve Finnish competitiveness. After the project sound insulation requirements can be described appropriately, this improves the satisfaction of the users of the buildings and cuts down the building costs.
The project is carried out in 8 work packages. In addition to the Department of Civil Engineering of TUT the project is carried out by the Indoor Environment Laboratory of Finnish Institute of Occupational Health and the Laboratory of Cognitive Psychology of University of Turku. The execution timetable of the project is 1.9.2011–31.12.2013. Valtteri Hongisto from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health works as the project manager of the project. In the Department of Civil Engineering of Tampere University of Technology Professor Ralf Lindberg and Research Fellow Mikko Kylliäinen answer for the project. The project is funded by Tekes, Finnish Ministry of the Environment and ten companies.
Life-Cycle Cost Economical Railway Track
Life-Cycle thinking is essential starting point for efficient railway track construction, rehabilitation and maintenance. To support technical decisions that bound huge investments more research-based knowledge on life-cycle efficient track is needed. Essential amount of this knowledge has been produced in collaboration with TUT and Finnish Transport Agency during the first phase of Research Program Life-Cycle Cost Economical Railway Track in 2009-2012. With increased knowledge in studied research areas it was observed that some further research themes are potential in gaining even higher life-cycle cost savings. Phase II of Research Program Life-Cycle Cost Economical Railway Track project is 1/2009 – 12/2016. Responsible leader is Antti Nurmikolu. The project is funded by Finnish Transport Agency.
New learning Environments
The New Learning Environments work package is build on multidisciplinary research approach for user needs as a driving force to develop models for future learning environments according to latest knowledge about learning and working places, indoor environment and energy efficiency and facilities management. The research effort on the New Learning Environments by the named TUT units is focusing on university facilities. The driver for the university focus is the renewal of university system in 2010. The interest is to understand how to support the goals of the university renewal by providing appropriate facilities. New user-oriented thinking and operations models are needed in design, construction and use of buildings and built environment. The spaces shall be adaptable and versatile. Spaces will also grow toward platforms of virtual services, and intelligent learning systems will overcome in their control. Optimizing and tailoring the facilities according to users’ needs is essential. Investments in renovations and building projects must be based on the owner’s and users’ needs. New ways of building should be based on knowledge about organizational psychology and pedagogical understanding. New technologies open new possibilities for organizing learning and research at the workplace. Responsible leader is Prof. Kalle Kähkönen. Sponsor by Suomen Yliopistokiinteistöt Oy 1.5.2011 – 30.3.2015.
Electrical Engineering
SGEM – Smart Grids and Energy Market
SGEM is five year long research program by Cluster for Energy and Environment (Cleen Oy). The main target of SGEM is to develop international smart grid solutions that can be demonstrated in a real environment utilizing Finnish R&D infrastructure. At the same time, the benefits of an interactive international research environment will accumulate the know-how of world-leading ICT and smart grid providers. SGEM is funded by Tekes and it will continue end of 2014. TUT has a significant role in program. The budget of TUT in year 2012 was almost 2M€. Responsible leader of SGEM in TUT is Professor Pertti Järventausta. Almost 10 research groups are participating in project from Departments of Electrical engineering, Industrial management, Civil engineering and Automation science and engineering.
EVELINA - National Test Environment for eMobility
National test environment for electric vehicles –project EVELINA is funded by Tekes and it’s part of EVE-research program. EVELINA is coordinated by Hermia Ltd and there are 20 partners from all over Finland. The aim of the project is monitoring of the vehicles test environment focuses on traffic and energy systems as well as on the development of maintenance and service infrastructure for electric vehicles. Responsible leader of EVELINA in TUT is Professor Markku Renfors. Several research groups from Departments of Electrical engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering and Pervasive Computing are participating in project. More information Electrical Engineering research in EVELINA from prof. Pertti Järventausta and prof. Heikki Tuusa.
SESPRO - Solar Energy Systems
SESPRO is a multiyear research project funded by Industry. Research focus is in developing new concepts and technology for grid integration of PV power plants and their operation under varying environmental conditions. Responsible leader of the research project is Professor Teuvo Suntio. Research is conducted by the groups of three professors from the Department of Electrical Engineering and the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering.
EuCARD and EuCARD2
EuCARD is a common venture of 37 European Accelerator Laboratories, Institutes, Universities and Industrial Partners involved in accelerator sciences and technologies. The project, initiated by ESGARD, is an Integrating Activity co-funded by the European Commission under Framework Programme 7 for a duration of four years, starting April 1st, 2009. Its main goal is to upgrade the large European research accelerators by R&D on innovative concepts and techniques, thereby offering researchers the best facilities. This common venture will strengthen durable collaboration among the partners and will contribute to the development of world-class infrastructures, one of the main features of the European Research Area. Responsible leader of the research project is Research fellow Antti Stenvall. Duration of projects are EuCARD: 1.4.2009-31.3.2013 and EuCARD2: 1.4.2013-31.3.2017
Stability analysis of superconducting hybrid magnets
Cost-effective way to make over 20 T magnets is attained by hybridisation of low and high temperature superconducting magnets. This kind of systems are studied in sub-cell NMR imaging and long-term upgrade program of LHC accelerator at CERN. In this project stability of these kinds of hybrid superconducting magnets will be analysed. The research plan is built on two doctoral theses and funded by Academy of Finland. The first studies quench analysis of hybrid magnets. Main emphasis will be on the high temperature insert. The second thesis concentrates on AC-loss simulations of high temperature superconducting cables designed for magnet use. The AC-losses are dominant mechanism in hybrid magnets when the loss-of-stability state is transferred from coil to other. The simulation results of both the theses will be benchmarked against experiments. Duration of project is 1.9.2011-31.8.2015. Responsible leader of the research project is Research fellow Antti Stenvall. More information also from Erkki Härö and Valtteri Lahtinen.
Modern Mathematics and Electrical engineering
Contemporaty electrical engineering relies significantly on mathematics which was there already at the end of the 19th century. The "old school" mathematics is highly structured, and hence, it yields a good starting point in building the first understanding. However, what is the easiest to understand for human beings need not to be the most efficient way to analyze engineering problems with computers. Consequently, the modern mathematics developed during the 20th century provides a more powerful background for contemporary engineering. In practice the work centralizes around Riemannian geometry which yields a dual view on forces and space in modelling; In the modern context accelerations can be interpreted as a property of space, and this forms the foundations to interpret electromagnetism, as well as many other fields of physics, as geometry. Thereafter it becomes possible to build new computational tools relying on the well established theory of Riemannian geometry. The project develops the underlying theory and applies the new tools into the needs of topical needs in electrical engineering. This Project is funded by Tekes, ABB, Bosch Gmbh (Germany), Cobham Technical Services (England), CSC Oy, Kone Oyj and Nokia Oyj.
RIMA - Reliability of Flip chip Interconnection Methods and Materials
The aim of this project is to investigate the applicability and reliability of flip chip interconnection technique by studying its use in several different applications and environments. Especially, the aim is to understand how materials and structures affect the behaviour and reliability of interconnections. Currently, there is an increasing interest in industry to use flip chip technique in many challenging applications. This project aims to study these challenging applications including for example high density interconnections, interconnections for high use temperatures, and low temperature interconnections. Responsible leader of the research project is Dr.Tech. Laura Frisk. 2012-2015, Funded by TEKES.
LUOVI - Reliability, malfunction mechanisms and development of testing methods in the electronic devices
The aim of the project is to design and to carry out different test methods on electronic products and their subsections. It is studied if the behaviour of the component in the reliability test changes from a fact whether it is tested alone or as a part of the bigger wholeness. Failure mechanisms and reasons for failures are investigated, and the behaviour of the components before a failure occurs will be examined so that models to simulate the failures could be done. Responsible leader of the research project is Dr.Tech. Laura Frisk. 2010-2013, Funded by TEKES.
JOIN2 - Industrial Mounting of Semiconductor Components
The project concentrates on mounting of optoelectronic components. The main goal is to develop and optimize mounting processes and process automation for different kinds of semiconductor components for industrial and academic use. The project is carried out in close cooperation with Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and the development work is carried out primarily at ORC's cleanroom facilities. Department of Electronics does reliability testing and cross-sections for the samples. Responsible leader of the research project is Dr.Tech. Laura Frisk. 2011-2013.
Electronics and Communications Engineering
Multitechnology Positioning Professionals - MULTI-POS
MULTI-POS is a prestigious Marie Curie Initial Training Network (ITN) that will address challenging research topics in the field of wireless localization and will offer a comprehensive multi-dimensional and cross-boundary training to 15 selected researchers from all over the world. The research and training parts in MULTI-POS are fully integrated and there is a strong contribution of private sector into the researchers’ formation. The main objectives of MULTI-POS network are: to bridge the gap between the lower technology layer and the upper application layer involved in wireless mobile positioning and navigation, to create novel methods, technologies and business models for the future location-enabled wireless devices. TUT is coordinating the network of 11 partners, each of them recruiting 1-3 foreign fellows for 22-36 months. In addition, there are 7 associated partners contributing to the training with smaller efforts. Responsible manager: prof. Jari Nurmi and project manager Francescantonio Della Rosa.
Design of a Highly-parallel Heterogeneous MP-SoC Architecture for Future Wireless Technologies - DEFT
A highly-parallel and structured Multi-Processor System-on-Chip (MP-SoC) architecture for cognitive self-adapting baseband signal processing will be developed in DEFT project. The architecture will be able to adjust its transceiver parameters at run-time according to spectrum availability, bit-error-rate, channel conditions and interference with other users. The starting point is a homogeneous MP-SoC architecture developed at Tampere University of Technology (TUT), to be developed to a more heterogeneous platform. The motivation is the need to realize a practical (by now non-existent) implementation of algorithms to enable Cognitive Radio (CR) technologies. We rely on a coarse-grain reconfigurability layer in the CR system design to combine programmable manycore and reconfigurable functionality on FPGA. The project is carried out in international collaboration with Universitè Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). Responsible manager:prof. Jari Nurmi and project manager Roberto Airoldi.
Industrial Management
HPCFinance - High Performance Computing for Finance
The HPCFinance network aims to proactively respond to the future requirements and provide solutions to manage financial risks by high-performance computing improving the financial strength of European financial industry and households. The network is coordinated and led by Prof. Juho Kanniainen. HPCFinance is a Marie Curie Initial Training Network, funded by the European Commission with the budget of EUR 4,101,000. The network consists of 7 universities and 8 companies and it will train 12 early-stage researchers and 2 experienced ones.
SafetyValu€ - The economic value of safety
Turmitta (SafetyValu€) project aims at developing tools and methods that can be used to evaluate the economic value of current level of safety as well as evaluate the economic value of safety initiatives, improvements and investments. The project contributes to the integration of safety into the core business of today's organizations and endorses a new view where safety is an asset and added value rather than a cost factor. Turmitta (SafetyValu€) is a part of Tekes Safety and Security 2007–2013 programme. It is also part of the FITPIS (Finnish Technology Platform for Industrial Safety). Leader at TUT is prof. Jouni Kivistö-Rahnasto and project manager Sari Tappura.
Information Management and Logistics
Innovative service metrics
The measurement and management of services is a challenging but highly relevant task in the present service-dominant business environment. This project, which is carried out in collaboration with Lappeenranta University of Technology, develops new metrics and measurement practices for service organizations. Contact person: Professor Antti Lönnqvist. Funding: Tekes, research partners and company partners. Duration: 2011–2013.
ICT- service innovation and productivity
Productivity improvement is a common target for all organizations. However, for service organizations productivity improvement has been considered particularly challenging due to the characteristics of service activities. This project, which is carried out in collaboration with Etla, analyses the potential of ICT to improve the productivity of service industries. Contact person: Professor Antti Lönnqvist. Funding: Tekes and Teknologiateollisuuden 100-vuotissäätiö. Duration: 2011–2013.
New Ways of Working
New ways of working refers to non-traditional work practices and to the use of information and communication technologies to supplement or replace traditional ways of working. They are being deployed in knowledge work context in order to increase employees working motivation, job satisfaction and productivity. This project – which is carried out in collaboration with VTT, industry partners and RYM Oy (which is the Strategic Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation of the built environment in Finland) – examines the possibilities of new ways of working (i.e., non-traditional work practices) in developing knowledge work productivity. Contact person: Professor Antti Lönnqvist. Funding: Tekes, research partners and company partners. Duration: 2011–2013.
Mathematics
Inverse problems of stochastic and regular surfaces
This project studies the modelling and applications of various types of surfaces in inverse problems. The main application fields are space research, forest and environmental sciences, and mathematical physics (dynamical systems). Project leader: prof. Mikko Kaasalainen, Dept. of Mathematics. Funding: Academy of Finland, 2011-14.
Finnish Centre of Excellence in Inverse Problems
The inverse problems group at TUT is part of the national Centre of Exellence. Project leader: prof. Mikko Kaasalainen, vice director of the CoE, Dept. of Mathematics. Funding: Academy of Finland and TUT, 2012-17.
Pervasive Computing
CoSMo - Co-Located User Interaction through Social Mobile Devices
The CoSMo project studies the possibilities and user needs for proactive, "social mobile devices" in various contexts of social interaction. Social mobile devices could, e.g, facilitate and suggest social interaction or automate transfer of digital information between people. The project will implement prototypes of social mobile devices, based on Cloud Computing and novel interaction techniques. The project is funded by the Academy of Finland and lasts for three years, starting 1.1.2013. It is strongly linked to the research conducted in the Tekes SHOK research programmes. The research is lead by Professors Kaisa Väänänen-Vainio-Mattila and Tommi Mikkonen. The other research staff includes post-doc researcher Thomas Olsson, doctoral candidate Niko Mäkitalo and doctoral candidate Pradtahana Jarusriboonchai.
Physics
Centre of Excellence in Computational Nanoscience - COMP
The COMP Centre of Excellence is funded for 2012-2017 by the Academy of Finland. The research interests range from electronic and structural properties of materials to their processing as well as to device and systems behavior. COMP strives at a multiscale approach to condensed-matter and materials research, ranging from the quantum world of ångströms and femtoseconds to macroscopic length and time scales. Academy Research Fellow Jaakko Akola.
Time dynamics and control in nanostructures for magnetic recording and energy applications - CRONOS
The CRONOS project seeks to develop a quantitative, flexible and fully atomistic theory of ultrafast dynamics in real materials. The effort will create the necessary knowledge for advancing two technological areas crucial for the economic future of Europe and the well being of its citizens: new materials for solar energy harvesting and ultra-high density magnetic data storage. The research is lead by Prof. Esa Räsänen European Commission 2012-2015.
Advanced Nonlinear Imaging of Molecular Structures - ANIMOS
The main goal of the project is to develop new techniques for nonlinear optical microscopy of ordered molecular structures. In order to do this, we develop ways to control the state of polarization of focused laser beams in the focal volume. The research are lead by Prof. Martti Kauranen and Dr. Godofredo Bautista. Academy of Finland 2010-2013.
Optically Controlled Photoresponsive Polymer Materials - PHORMAT
The main goal is to use optical techniques to manipulate molecular materials. A particular task of our group is to induce non-centrosymmetric structures optically for second-order nonlinear optical response. Another goal is to enhance resolution in optical patterning of polymers. The research are lead by Prof. Martti Kauranen and Dr. Juha Toivonen. Academy of Finland 2010-2013.
Measurement, Monitoring and Environmental Efficiency Assessment - MMEA
The objective of the MMEA research program during 2010-2014 is to develop new technologies, methods, tools and services in the area of measuring, environmental monitoring and EEA that are attractive both on the national and international markets. The research are lead by Prof Jorma Keskinen, Dr. Juha Toivonen and Dr. Topi Rönkkö. Tekes 2010-2014.
Dynamic 3D resolution-enhanced low-coherence interferometric imaging - HILO
The project aims at developing tomorrow's broadband light source for enhancing the resolution of 3D dynamic imaging systems including scanning white-light interferometry and optical coherence tomography.
The research is lead by prof. Goëry Genty. Academy of Finland 2010-2013.
Computational Perspective to Dynamical Protein-Lipid Complexes under Crowded Conditions - CROWDED-PRO-LIPIDS
This ERC Advanced Grant project is funded by the European Research Council for 2012-2017. Its main objective is to unlock how lipids modulate protein and receptor function, and to focus on this topic in particular under native-like crowded conditions. The key methodology applied in the project is computer simulation using atomistic and coarse-grained molecular models. The research is lead by prof. Ilpo Vattulainen. European Research Council (ERC) 2012-2017.
FiDiPro - Dynamics and Function in Crowded Cells
The FiDiPro project granted by the Academy of Finland (2010-2015) for Prof. Ralf Metzler (University of Potsdam) enables bridging his theoretical work with molecular simulations carried out at TUT. The grand objective of the project is to gain better understanding of the underlying principles by which cellular dynamics takes place in crowded conditions. The research is lead by prof. Ilpo Vattulainen.
FiDiPro - Translocation of Molecules across Cell Membranes and its Consequences in Biomolecular Trafficking, Drug Delevery and Cell Death
The FiDiPro project granted by the Academy of Finland (2013-2017) for Prof. Pavel Jungwirth (Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague) enables bridging his protein simulations with lipid considerations carried out at TUT. The key objective of the project is to clarify many of the mechanisms and biological implications of a variety of translocation processes used by nature in cell membranes. As a related topic, the aim is to use the emerging insight to promote one of the greatest challenges in drug design:
delivery of drugs through the blood brain barrier. The research is lead by prof. Ilpo Vattulainen.
Better Upscaling and Optimization of Nanoparticle and Nanostructure Production by Means of Electrical Discharges - BUONAPART-E
The BUONAPART-E project aims to demonstrate that a physical nanoparticle synthesis process can be economically scaled-up to yield 100 kg/day production rate, which is the target rate mentioned in the Call Topic. The process is simple, versatile, and reliable. It avoids chemical precursors and solvents, while fully recycling the necessary inert carrier gas, resulting in a minimal impact on the environment. The process does not necessitate external heating of the inert gas, thereby keeping energy consumption low. The research is lead by Prof. Jyrki Mäkelä, Prof. Jorma Keskinen and Prof. Anssi Arffman. European Union 2012-2016.
Trends in real-world particle emissions of diesel and gasoline vehicles - TREAM
The TREAM project aims to clarify the effects of long-time trends on real-world particle emissions of diesel and gasoline engine and vehicles. To do that, the project utilizes databases produced in other projects in addition to the other published emission data, for example, for modeling studies. To answer to the open questions related to real-world exhaust particle number, size distributions and characteristics, real-world emissions of gasoline and diesel passenger cars and heavy duty diesel trucks are studied on road at normal driving conditions using the laboratory vehicle. The research is lead by dr. Topi Rönkkö. Tekes and European Union 2011-2014.
Bridging Atomistic Biophysical Simulations and Computational Systems Biology for Applications to Type 1 Diabetes AtomSysBio
The project has two main aims: to elucidate how molecular simulation models of biomolecular systems can be bridged with computational systems biology, and apply the novel computational technology together with experiments to applications in life sciences. The research is lead by prof. Ilpo Vattulainen. Academy of Finland 2012-2016.
Carbon nanotube based programmable bioactuator - BIONANOCAR
The objective of this project is to couple biological and non-biological fields to one another in a manner where signaling between them can take place in a controlled fashion in both directions. This is realized by using carbon nanostructures as a template for a layer of biological molecules that provide one with programmable functions. The research is lead by prof. Ilpo Vattulainen. Academy of Finland 2012-2016.
Production Engineering
AC-Desk - Adaptive and Collaborative Desktop Factory
AC-Desk is a Tekes funded parallel project between five Finnish industrial partners and TUT Department of Production Engineering. The objective of this project is to ensure the leading position of Finnish production system suppliers in global breakthrough of desktop production systems. The project concentrates on the development of desktop manufacturing and assembly systems and their sub-systems as well as the key enabling technologies in order to bring new cost effective and ecological desktop size applications into the global production system market. In addition to traditional assembly industry, e.g. electronics, the focus will be on manufacturing and assembly solutions for biomedical products such as implants and diagnostic and laboratory devices. Contact Riku Heikkilä. Funding: Tekes and companies. Time schedule: 2012/01/01 – 2013/12/31.
ASTUTE - Pro-active decision support for data-intensive environments
ASTUTE aims at defining reference architecture for the development of HMIs, targeting proactive information retrieval and delivery based on situational context, as well influenced by information content and services, and user state information. This architecture will support the user intentions, optimizing the choices available to the user, while keeping the user in control of the situation. Verified by demonstrators, the architecture will allow for multiple instantiations for different domains such as avionics, automotive and emergency management. Project leader: Prof. Jose Martinez Lastra. Funding: ARTEMIS-2010-1. Time schedule: 2011/03/01 – 2014/02/28.
E-SCOP - Embedded Systems Service-based Control for Open Manufacturing and Process Automation
E-SCOP project aims to overcome the current drawbacks for the shop floor control level (i.e. MES and deterministic / real-time control), thus improving the state of the art of the overall production control system architecture. This goal is achieved by introducing an innovative approach based on the combination of 3 different pillars, namely: i) embedded systems, ii) ontology-based knowledge management and iii) service- oriented architecture. Project manager Karen Thorburn, funding ARTEMIS-2012-1 and project duration 1.3.2013-28.2.2016.
Kettu
Kettu project aims to create a learning environment that can be used to model an entire production chain of an SME from order to delivery. The learning environment contains learning material regarding production technology, digital manufacturing, sustainable development, enterprise resource planning and business operations, as well as simulations. Contact Kirsi Andersson. Funding: Western Finland ERDF and time schedule: 2012/07/01 – 2014/12/31.
Somestra
The goal of Somestra project is to develop and test a new model for strategic development of companies and company networks and their cooperation utilising social media. The model enables real-time development, sharing of development tools and knowledge, and offering services for start-ups in social media environment. Contact Heli Lampinen. Funding: ESF and time schedule: 2011/12/01 – 2014/04/30.
URB-Grade - Decision Support Tool for Retrofitting a District, Towards the District as a Service
The URB-Grade project designs, develops and validates a Platform for Decision Support that will allow the city authorities and utilities to promote and choose the correct actions to upgrade a district to become more energy efficient, cost effective and to increase comfort for its citizens in a District as a Service Platform (DaaS Platform) approach. The DaaS Platform will identify the largest improvement potential for a district based on energy costs, development potential and comfort improvements for citizens.
Project leader: Prof. Jose Martinez Lastra. Funding: FP7-2012-NMP-ENV-ENERGY-ICT-EeB and time schedule: 2012/11/01 – 2016/01/31.
Optoelectronics Research Centre
High-Field Science with Ultrafast Laser Sources
Target is to develop novel systems for phase-stable, intense femtosecond pulse generation with high repetition rate and pursue new information on non-linear phenomena. Responsible project leader: Dr. Pekka Savolainen and project manager: Dr. Lasse Orsila. Financier: Academy of Finland and duration: 1.8.2008 - 31.12.2013.
REDMETA – Resonance-domain metamaterials for sub-wavelength optics
The goal of the REDMETA project is to develop novel optical metamaterials in order to harness and control the transmission and localization of light, as well as the nonlinear response, in ways that are not possible with current materials. It is a consortium between the Tampere University of Technology (Dr. Janne Simonen and Prof. Goëry Genty) and the University of Eastern Finland (Prof. Yuri Svirko). Responsible project leader & project manager: Ph.D. Janne Simonen. Financier: Academy of Finland and duration: 1.1.2010-31.12.2013.
NANoS – New Approach for Heteroepitaxy: Antimonide Nanowires
NANoS is three-year Postdoctoral Research Project founded by Academy of Finland. The main goal of NANoS is to demonstrate controlled and cost-effective method to fabricate site-controlled antimony nanowires (NW) on Silicon templates. The antimony NWs are suitable for mid-infrared devices or for high-speed electronics. They also have potential for use in spin electronics. Other applications include thermo-electronics and magnetic sensors. Responsible project leader & project manager: Dr. Soile Suomalainen. Financier: Academy of Finland and project duration: 1.9.2012 – 31.8.2015.
DROPLET – Novel quantum-dot concepts in III-V epitaxy
The aim of DROPLET is to establish novel III-V semiconductor quantum-dot (QD) growth schemes using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The focus of this project lies on droplet-epitaxy technique and its novel modification: refilling of self-assembled nanoholes. These MBE techniques are quite different from the commonly exploited Stranski-Krastanov QD growth process, in which strained epitaxial layers play the key role. In contrast to that, in droplet epitaxy, a metallic group-III element is first deposited at relatively low temperature on a substrate. The following step – crystallization – is achieved by supplying a group-V element resulting in QDs. When re-filling the nanoholes, metallic droplets are deposited at high temperatures. The droplets form nanoholes, which are then re-filled with a QD material. The main advantages of these closely related, controllable QD growth techniques are the possibility to create entirely lattice-strain-free QDs and an enhanced flexibility in the selection of materials, far beyond that of Stranski-Krastanov QDs. Responsible project leader & project manager: Dr. Andreas Schramm. Financier: Academy of Finland and funding period: 1.1.2011 – 31.12.2013.
FABRICS – Fabrication and service performance of advanced stainless steels for demanding exhaust applications
FABRICS is a subproject of FIMECC Ltd. – Finnish Metals and Engineering Competence Cluster – Demanding Applications (DEMAPP) program of TEKES, which aims to increase and deepen the cooperation between companies, universities, and research institutes in the area of top quality research. The program focuses on research and development of advanced materials for demanding application environments. The objective of the FABRICS subproject is to clarify the use of advanced ferritic stainless steels for exhaust system applications and to explore new applications. These materials are cost-efficient and sustainable, but their fabrication properties and possible limitations are not sufficiently well known. The scientific goal of FABRICS is to gain profound understanding of the mechanical-, oxidation-, and corrosion properties of these materials at high temperatures. The technological objectives of controlling the surface-mediated processes include improving the durability and self-healing properties of the protective oxide layer on ferritic stainless steels. The principal coordinator of the TUT consortium is Prof. Veli-Tapani Kuokkala. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Tekes and project duration: 1.6.2010 – 31.5.2013.
NanoFinish – Nanostructures and finishing of advanced stainless steel surfaces
NanoFinish project is funded by TEKES and it aims for the development of advanced stainless steel materials by controlling the formation of their surface nanostructures, such as the protective oxide layer, in great detail. Such control can be achieved through careful design of alloy composition, including the addition of specific minor and micro-alloying elements, and optimization of the surface finishing process (bright annealing) based on surface analytical research. The main research questions of this project are related to understanding the atomic- and molecular level details of the gas-solid surface interaction, which leads to reduction of unwanted oxide scales and subsequent formation of protective thin films. The goal is to control these phenomena in order to obtain desired properties, such as improved corrosion resistance, cleanability, durability under demanding application environments, and novel functionalities. The primary investigative tools employed in this research are molecular beam surface scattering and other methods of experimental surface science. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Tekes and project duration: 1.6.2010 – 31.5.2013.
KURKO – Composites for tissue construction
KURKO is a part of Functional Materials Program of TEKES and coordinated by the Department of Electronics and Communications Engineering, TUT. In this project, biodegradable porous synthetic polymer composite materials are engineered and studied for tissue engineering and medical applications. The aim is to manufacture scaffolds that mimic the structure and composition of the targeted tissue and promote differentiation of stem cells and tissue growth. These composites enable treatments for difficult tissue injuries especially in bone, cartilage and tendon tissues. The project combines high level knowledge of polymer processing, surface science and development with supercritical carbon dioxide processing which enables the development and tailoring of functional porous polymer composites for biomedical applications. The surface science research related to this project is coordinated by Prof. Mika Valden of Surface Science Laboratory at Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). The principal coordinator of the consortium is Prof. Minna Kellomäki (TUT). Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Tekes and project duration: 1.3.2011 – 28.2.2014.
NANOmat – Modular spectromicroscopy system for nanomaterials synthesis and characterization
NANOmat project is an effort to build a self-sustaining interdisciplinary consortium for advanced materials science, scientific collaboration and researcher training centered on a novel surface analytical research system, NanoESCA. In addition to surface analytical instrumentation, the system features an ALD reactor for synthesis of novel materials. NANOmat is funded from FIRI2010 infrastructure program of the Academy of Finland. The system is a modular research system featuring facilities for synthesis of a wide variety of novel materials and their subsequent characterization by imaging spectromicroscopy. The infrastructure is of significant importance for the research in different fields at TUT, but access is also granted to materials researchers in Finland based on funded research proposals. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Academy of Finland and project duration: 9.12.2010 – 31.8.2013.
SR-MAXIV – Synchrotron radiation based studies at MAX-IV
SR-MAXIV is funded from FIRI2010 infrastructure program of the Academy of Finland. It aims at enhancing access for the wide Finnish synchrotron radiation (SR) user base to the forthcoming MAX-IV synchrotron in Lund, Sweden. Availability of a state-of-the-art SR and short pulse facility in close geographical proximity serving extremely high brightness on wide range of photon energies is extremely high on the priorities of researchers on the field. The goal of the project is to provide Finnish expertise on developing the MAX-IV site. Contributing to infrastructure at MAX-IV site helps to establish long term collaboration with the MAX-IV Laboratory. Directing the designs and commission of the beamlines and experimental end stations ensures the best usability, availability and suitability of the upcoming state of art radiation source for Finnish researchers in the future. The surface science research related to this project is coordinated by Prof. Mika Valden of Surface Science Laboratory at Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). The principal coordinator of the consortium is Prof. Marko Huttula (University of Oulu). Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Academy of Finland and project duration: 4.1.2011 – 31.12.2015.
Biofunc – Biofunctionalization of stainless steel surfaces using novel electrospray mediated supersonic molecular beam deposition technique
The scientific goal of Biofunc is to develop a novel electrospray mediated supersonic molecular beam deposition (ES-SSMB) technique for controlled, covalent immobilization of protein, enzyme or avidin-biotin complexes on silanized FeCrNiMn based nanopatterned materials. The aim is to guide the biomolecule adsorption (protein or enzyme) or cell attachment on stainless steel surface by bottom-up nanofabrication approach where the stainless steel surface will be modified in a controllable fashion by bright annealing, hydroxylation treatments and silanization. By synthesizing tailor-made supramolecular assemblies with ES-SSMB technique we can stabilize hydrogen bonding and metal-ligand interactions. This facilitates exceptional control over chemical composition and morphology of stainless steel surfaces for specific binding of biomolecules for biomedical applications and biodiagnostics in food and medical industry. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mika Valden. Financier: Academy of Finland and project duration: 1.9.2011 – 31.8.2015.
RAMPLAS – 100 Gb/s Optical RAM on-chip: Silicon-based, integrated Optical RAM enabling High-Speed Applications in Computing and Communications
RAMPLAS is a 3-years EC-funded research project envisioning the development and demonstration of a Silicon-based, integrated Optical RAM chip for applications in High-Speed Computing and Communications. RAMPLAS has been launched in September 2011 and is supported by the European Commission within the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7‐ICT‐2009‐C). The semiconductor technology group of ORC led by prof. Mircea Guina is responsible for the development of innovative InGaAsNSb semiconductor optical amplifiers that are the key element of the RAM cells. In particular the goal is to demonstrate ultrafast gain recovery enabling RAM operation at 100 GHz speeds at the wavelength of 1550 nm. The optical RAM technology envisaged within RAMPLAS is expected to enable a paradigm shift in the way computing architectures are perceived to be today. It would enable ultra-fast memory access times, 30 times smaller than state-of-the-art SRAM cache and 3 orders of magnitude lower than DRAM modules and should significantly lower the memory power consumption compared to state-of-the-art electronic RAM. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mircea Guina. Financier: EC FP7 and duration: 1.9.2011 - 30.8.2014.
APACOS – Automated Precision Assembly of Complex Optical Systems
The APACOS project is founded by European Commissions within R4SME scheme. It aims at developing solutions for the automated assembly of laser systems adapted to new laser sources designed for automated assembly. ORC’s Semiconductor Technology Group is a key partner of the consortium led by Fruanhofer Institute for Production Technology in Germany. One of the main tasks of ORC team is the development of high-power yellow laser with perspectives in the markets of health care and life sciences. Secondly ORC will develop single-emitter laser diodes for visible green and yellow lasers used for projection and display applications. Together, the APACOS consortium strives for a more standardized and automated assembly of lasers and optical systems considering aspects of product design, production system requirements, and process development. That will lead to a set of design guidelines for laser sources and a flexible assembly cell for laser optics. The project results are expected to have a major impact on the European laser industry by strengthening innovative laser manufacturers through more competitive production conditions. Responsible project leader: Prof. Mircea Guina and project manager: Dr. Jukka Viheriälä. Financier: EC FP7 and duration: 1.8.2012 - 31.7.2014.
QUADSYS – Quantum Nano-Photonics with Ordered Semiconductor Quantum Dot Systems
QUADSYS project is a European consortium co-founded by the Finnish Academy and INTAS within ERA.NET-RUS framework program. The consortium is coordinated by Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Switzerland and incorporates the Semiconductor Technology Group of ORC together with Lebedev Physical Institute, RAS, Moscow, and Ioffe Physical Technical Institute, RAS, Saint Petersburg, Russia. The projects target the development of ordered quantum dot (QD) systems using epitaxial growth on patterned substrates. This technology will be employed in the investigation of quantum optics phenomena and functional devices, including single- and entangled-photon emitters. To this end, site-controlled QDs with prescribed emission wavelength and heterostructure potential wells will be fabricated, and emission of single- and entangled-photons from specific confined exciton states will be investigated. Theoretical models of the confined excitonic states and their correlation with the statistics of the emitted photons will be developed and used for the interpretation of the experimental results. Various quantum optical processes, including single photon interference and the generation of indistinguishable photons and quantum teleportation of excitonic states will be investigated. The project should yield novel QD systems enabling to study advanced quantum photonics processes in the solid state. Responsible project leader & project manager: Prof. Mircea Guina. Financier: Academy of Finland and INTAS and duration: 1.9.2012 - 31.8.2014.
HIGHMAT – Epitaxy and Fundamental Studies of Novel Highly-Mismatched III-V Semiconductor Alloys
HIGHMAT is a Finnish Academy funded consortium coordinated by Prof. Mircea Guina at the Semiconductor Technology Group of ORC. The project targets a significant breakthrough in the physics and technology of highly-mismatched III-V-Bi alloys. This is a new class of compound semiconductors that holds remarkable promises to revolutionize the development of lasers, high-efficiency solar cells, mid-IR detectors, or spintronic devices. The main objectives of the project are: i) To devise epitaxial conditions suitable for synthesis of novel III-V-Bi heterostructures and to understand the surface mechanisms involved in Bi incorporation processes; ii) To elucidate the structural, optical, and electrical properties of the III-V-Bi heterostructures by using innovative surface science methods and characterization tools at the atomic level; and iii) To assess the suitability of the III-V-Bi alloys for realizing novel optoelectronic devices. The program is designed to foster international and national cooperation with leading research groups having complementary expertise in investigations of novel materials and nanostructures. Scientific breakthroughs are expected, for example, in the determination of crystal sites occupied by Bi and the surface structures of these unusual alloys. In long term, the project is deemed to have a high societal and economical impact by offering new alternatives to mainstream optoelectronics technologies, in particular for the less developed mid-IR wavelength range. Responsible project leader and project manager: Prof. Mircea Guina. Financier: Academy of Finland and duration: 1.9.2012 - 31.8.2016.
Photonics QCA – Photonically Addressed Zero Current Logic through Nano-Assembly of Functionalised Nanoparticles to Quantum Dot Cellular Automata
Photonics QCA is a multidisciplinary consortium funded at TUT within the “Programmable Materials” program of the Finnish Academy. The project combines expertise from the departments of Electronics, Chemistry and Bioengineering and Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) to look at the unique possibilities of combining organic chemistry, semiconductor growth and nonofabrication to put the basis of a visionary technology platform for future nanoelectronic devices and logic circuits. Photonics QCA aims to combine the concepts of Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata (QCA) for zero-current logic with chemical functionalisation of quantum dot semiconductor structures and the use of these hybrid structures to enable optical addressing. QCA switch by rearranging charges within a cell, and can be a path to logical circuits that do not require flow of current, but fabrication has been a challenge to date, and addressing of smaller and smaller structures by wiring is also a problem. This project will study novel approaches for fabrication and positioning of quantum dot (QD) structures and chemical functionalisation for optical control of the injection and transfer of charge into and between QDs. The goal of the project is to point the way toward novel QCAs that can be written, clocked and read out optically without the need for electronic nano-micro interfaces; this could create a fully new paradigm for design, fabrication and addressing of logical circuitry. Responsible project leader: Prof. Mircea Guina, Prof. Tapio Niemi and project manager: Dr. Andreas Schramm. Financier: Finnish Academy and duration: 1.9.2012 - 31.8.2016.
BRIGHTLASE – Advanced dilute nitride technology for high brightness lasers
BRIGHTLASE is a TEKES funded project as an extension of the activities developed at the Semiconductor Technology Group of ORC within the “Functional Materials” program. In this project, we target to develop a new laser technology platform for generating high-brightness yellow-orange (i.e. 570–620 nm) radiation. Such light sources are needed urgently for high-impact applications in medicine, spectroscopy, or industrial control. We will capitalize on our pioneering research results regarding the use of dilute nitride compounds to achieve record high output powers at the said wavelengths from frequency doubled semiconductor disk lasers. The main expected results include: the development of a process suitable for commercial production of the yellow lasers, building prototypes that would enable engagement with application developers, setting up a commercialization strategy, and performing a preliminary assessment of environmental impact and life-cycle of the developed technology. Responsible project leader: Prof. Mircea Guina and project manager: Dr. Tomi Leinonen. Financier: TEKES and duration: 1.2.2012 - 31.12.2013.
NextSolar – Technology up-scaling for next generation multi-junction solar cells
NextSolar is one of a project conducted at the Semiconductor Technology Group of ORC that is deemed as having a high potential for making an important societal impact. The objective is to advance the fabrication technology of novel compound semiconductors, i.e. dilute nitrides, and demonstrate their functionality in multi-junction solar cells with efficiencies in the range of 40-45 under concentrated conditions (i.e. for CPV systems). Compared with standard PV technologies, the CPV systems exhibit many benefits including higher efficiency, several order of magnitude reduction in the area of semiconductor materials used, and lower use of other energy-intensive materials. Also the materials (aluminium, steel, glass) for the panel frames and optics are easily recyclable. This activity is supported by important cooperation with semiconductor industry, utility companies, and specialized research networks such as COST MP0805. Responsible project leader: Prof. Mircea Guina and project manager: Dr. Antti Tukiainen. Financier: TEKES and duration: 1.7.2012 - 31.12.2013.
Pori Department
GALA - Games and Learning Alliance, Network of Excellence for Serious Games
GALA gathers the cutting-the-edge European Research & Development organizations on Serious Games involving altogether 31 partners from 14 countries all over the EU. The GALA motivation stems from the acknowledgment of the potentiality of Serious Games for education and training and the need to address the challenges of the main stakeholders of the European Serious Games landscape (users, researchers, developers/industry, educators). GALA aims to build a European Virtual Research Centre aimed at gathering, integrating, harmonizing and coordinating research on Serious Games and transferring innovation and knowledge from academia to business. GALA is funded by the European Union in FP7 – IST ICT, Technology Enhanced Learning. (1.10.2010−30.9.2014).
MAGICAL − Making games in collaboration for learning
MAGICAL is a European project that’s exploring collaborative design of educational games by primary and lower secondary students. We’re investigating the impact this can have on learning, and especially on support for key transversal skills like strategic thinking and creativity. Project is developing a special game authoring environment for learners and educators that’ll be available to the whole education community. As part of MAGICAL’s core mission, project is focusing on the design and orchestration of learning activities based on collaborative game making, and so the project encompasses the education and training of teachers as well as professionals in inclusion. MAGICAL is a multilateral project, co-funded under the European Commission's Lifelong Learning Programme Key Action 3 for the Development of Innovative ICT-Based Content, Services, Pedagogies and Practice for Lifelong Learning. Responsible Leaderis is Kristian Kiili and researchers are Mikko Koskela and Teemu Jönkkäri. Other partners: The Institute for Educational Technology (ITD-CNR: coordinator), Manchester Metropolitan University and
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven. Project time: 1.1.2012−1.4.2014.
FINNABLE 2020
FINNABLE 2020 fosters new ecosystems of learning that break through traditional boundaries about where, when, and with whom learning takes place. FINNABLE project promote the research and design of collaborative, technology enabled learning environments for the 21st century locally and internationally. In cooperation with researchers, practitioners, private companies and the public sector, we are developing the capacity of educators to foster students’ growth as active, technology literate 21st century citizens with strong foundations for life-long and life-wide learning. TUT, Pori is responsible of the Exergames in Learning is a subproject that aims to design and study game solutions that increase physical activity in the classroom without interfering the objectives of the curriculum. The research studies the usefulness of a new serious game genre, educational exergames and explores ways to implement such games into the schools. FINNABLE is a Tekes funded joint project (1.1.2012−30.6.2013) with University of Helsinki (coordinator). Responsible Leader Kristian Kiili, Project Manager and Researcher Marko Suominen.
GloCal - mNutrition for Infant Health - Global Mobile Platform Tested Locally in Rural India
The ultimate aim of GloCal is to create a scalable and cost-effective mobile phone platform for global use. GloCal will be used for data collection and information dissemination in order to improve child nutrition worldwide. It will be adjustable according to local needs with minimum efforts. The applications will be developed and tested as part of a nutrition study that aims to improve young infant nutrition and health in rural India. The applications will be designed to be socially and culturally acceptable, and to meet the needs and requirements of the target population. There will be additional focus on creating an appealing interface, and on special features that will attract the sustained interest of the end-user. GloCal is a Tekes funded joint project (1.9.2011−31.7.2013) with University of Helsinki. Advanced Multimedia Center (Tampere University of Technology, Pori) is involved in mobile platform development and programming. Responsible Leader: Kristian Kiili and Project Manager and Researcher: Arttu Perttula.
Global West – international service concepts and learning innovations
The main targets of the project are to develop international service concepts and learn to promote innovations globally. One of the aims is to expand international knowledge in education, co-operation with other vocational schools and R & D organizations. The Global West project creates and recognizes international education export and product development. AMC/Tampere University of Technology is mainly responsible for the study of different game-based learning innovations (e.g. exergames) and for creating a dissemination plan in order to find the most functional ways to export these learning innovations. The research will provide information on the adaptation and dissemination of new learning innovations, especially on the international level. Duration of the project: 1.8.2011−31.5.2013. Funded by EU, ERDF – European Regional Development Fund. Responsible Leader Kristian Kiili and Project Manager and Researcher Pauliina Tuomi.
D21 - Data-to-Intelligence
D2I project is part of national SHOK programme executed in industry-academy collaboration, in which four departments of TUT are participating. Department Pori studies methods for multimedia analysis (e.g. Kansei/University of Keio, PicSOM/Aalto University, MUVIS/Tampere University of Technology), and the reliability and applicability of these methods for use in commercial applications. One of the goals of the project is to define a specification document for the integration of various analysis systems. Based on this specification a prototype system is to be implemented. In the first phase of the project the focus is on image analysis, and in the future, on audio and video analysis. Responsible manager: Prof. Hannu Jaakkola. The Department of Signal Processing is developing the next generation mobile content-based multimedia search engine, which will be platform and device-independent, scalable and efficient for handling large scale data. The aim is to develop methods to groom and devour diverse data for the efficient retrieval on a range of devices. These efforts contribute directly and actively towards solving major issues related to the concept of “big data”. Contact person: Prof. Moncef Gabbouj. Department of Pervasive Computing is building a cloud-based architecture, where mobile devices are able to seamlessly access big data. Contact person: Prof. Tommi Mikkonen. Department of Automation Science and Engineering studies the utilization of data gathered from machinery for recognizing and analyzing the work phases. Based on GPS data collected during operations the purpose is to improve effectiveness and productivity of machines and its operators. The analysis is based on data clustering and rule based analysis and decision support methods. Contact person: Prof. Matti Vilkko.