Open tracks

Open Track #1

"Complex systems: Recent Advances in Robust Observation and Control"

 Organizers: Thach Ngoc Dinh*, Andreas Rauh, Thomas Chevet, Tarek Raïssi 

Abstract: The goal of this open track is to bring together researchers who employ robust methods for modeling, estimation, control, and approximation, to present benefits in numerous use cases of these methods dealing with complex systems to the broad control community, and to stimulate further activities in this important research area. The proposed open track will provide a forum for presenting and discussing the latest developments on theoretical and computational aspects in robust control and observation of complex systems by both junior and senior faculties across different academic disciplines (electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, computer science) and from different geographic regions. While all the papers center around the theme of the session, they cover a wide range of theoretical approaches and application topics of great interest to control researchers from academia and industry.

Authors wishing to contribute to this track may contact Prof. Thach Ngoc Dinh, ngoc-thach.dinh@lecnam.net with copy to cosy2022@unibo.it   

Open Track #2

"Automation and Control Solutions for the Steel Industry"

Organizers: Valentina Colla, Stefano Dettori, Vincenzo Iannino, Marcus Neuer

Abstract: Steel production is a very complex and cumbersome industrial process, that is traditionally articulated in two main production routes, the integrated route, producing steel from virgin primary raw material, and the electric route, which produces steel by melting scrap deriving from end-of-line products. The production chain include a variety of different sub-processes, during which the material continuously evolve not only in geometry but also (and mostly) in its intrinsic properties, whose on-line monitoring and control is challenging, being integral part of product quality management. The semi-continuous nature of this production process as , also calling for intelligent logistics, must be considered, by avoiding straightforward deployment of solutions developed within other industrial sectors.

The iron and steel sector worldwide is undergoing two relevant and for some aspects connected transformations digitalization and decarbonization. Digitalization nowadays enables harvesting of an ever increasing volume of heterogeneous data whose exploitation within process control and automation is far from being consolidated and is the object of a numerous research projects. Decarbonization calls for the development of control approaches which supports energy efficiency and exploitation of various energy sources (including renewables or sources which are currently underexploited or neglected), as well as of novel hydrogen-based technologies.

Advanced automation and control approaches plays a fundamental role in the enforcement of the European technological leadership in steel production and manufacturing as well as in facing the challenge of improving sustainability of steelworks .

This open track aims are gathering the latest research achievements, findings and ideas concerning design, development and implementation of automation and control in the steel field. This include novel technological frameworks, smart solutions, advanced control systems and solutions, also supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) and customized to the needs of the steel sector. Moreover, industrial case studies are also welcome.

This open tack is organized under the umbrella of the project entitled “Dissemination and valorisation of RFCS-results in the field of “Advanced Automation and Control Solutions in Downstream Steel Processes” and development of a strategic vision for future research” (ControlInSteel), which has received funding from the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (G.A. 899281).

Authors wishing to contribute to this open track may contact Dr. Valentina Colla, valentina.colla@santannapisa.it with copy to cosy2022@unibo.it