Research projects

Abstract

Machine learning is being used increasingly for high-stakes decisions in areas such as healthcare, finance and justice. It is therefore vital that its effect on society is aligned with our ethical objectives. Many examples of biased and discriminatory machine learning systems exist, and to avoid these scenarios, we need to be able to understand why AI systems make the decisions they do, and to ensure they are fair. Within this postdoctoral project, I have two main objectives: First, I want to develop methods to detect bias in machine learning models trained on behavioral data. This type of data is largely unexplored in the fairness domain. Secondly, I aim to provide transparency into the workings of bias mitigation methods . These are techniques deployed to eliminate biases in machine learning models, but they show a high level of arbitrariness, which introduces an additional layer of unfairness. Lastly, I will validate my findings on use cases in various application domains, which shows the widespread importance of these methods.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Goethals Sofie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In 2022, United Nations Member States have committed to conserving and protecting 30 percent of marine and coastal waters by 2030, meaning a three-fold increase in the extent of marine protected areas (MPAs). Given the challenge this represents and the dependence of nearly 40 million people on fisheries, it is crucial to understand the socio-economic implications of MPAs for local fishing communities. This project has three objectives. First, it will quantitatively assess local fishers' willingness to accept MPAs and preferences regarding their design ex-ante, based on a survey and discrete choice experiment. Second, it will estimate the impact of MPAs on fishing communities' income, employment, food security and nutrition, and happiness, based on a survey and analysis using propensity score matching and structural equation models. This way, it will be possible to investigate causal impact pathways and influencing factors. Third, this project will develop a novel methodology to estimate illegal fishing practices on a local scale using a participatory mixed methods strategy, which will then be used to investigate the extent and dynamics of illegal fishing within and around MPAs. To reach these objectives, a multiple case study approach will be taken with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa, including foreseen and established MPAs in Senegal and Cabo Verde. Overall, the project will lead to several academic breakthroughs and empirical evidence on MPAs, guiding sound policy-making.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Enthoven Laura

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Because of the generally high standard of living in Europe, protein shortage is imminent. Today, protein-rich crops such as soy are imported to meet the high demand, leading to unsustainable practices. Europe, including Flanders, is committed to growing protein seeds, legumes, etc. but is far from self-sufficient in protein. SUPROSEA is framed within the Flemish Protein Strategy which sets the 40%-60% animal versus plant protein target and takes into account the limited availability of agricultural land in Flanders. Therefore, SUPROSEA focusses on aquatic protein rich biomass, i.e. different species of seaweed (green, brown and red) as they are economically and ecologically interesting organisms for the extraction of proteins, and other high-value compounts such as pigments for the food and feed industry. The main objective of the project is to identify the most promising biorefinery in terms of sustainability. The culture conditions of local seaweed will be optimized to improve the quality and quantity of the components to be extracted. Moreover, efficient ways to valorize the remaining biomass in a cascade biorefinery approach will be investigated (zerowaste approach). Different mild extraction techniques will be tested, and the residual seaweed biomass iwill be fermented to produce microbial proteins. The seaweed proteins, microbial ones and high value seaweed compounds are then characterized and tested in food and feed trials. Biorefinery process modelling will be done to obtain scaled-up data for different seaweed value chain scenarios, which will be evaluated on the basis of an integrated sustainability methodology, including life cycle analysis, biodiversity mdoelling, ecosystem services assessment, and techno-economic and market analysis. A comparison with alternative protein sources is foreseen. SUPROSEA wants to support sustainable, blue economy activities.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The agri-food sector plays a pivotal role in sustaining life on our planet by providing essential resources such as food, fiber, and fuel. However, the sector's impacts have extended beyond the production of food, emphasizing the need to incorporate the concept of externalities. These externalities encompass a spectrum of social and environmental impacts, both positive and negative, ranging from soil erosion and pollution to deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Conventional agri-food systems often fail to account for them, which not only affects the industry itself, but also the broader ecosystem. To tackle these challenges, the agri-food sector must embrace a paradigm shift and transition to more sustainable business models. Agribusiness models represent various approaches, strategies and structures to engage in agricultural activities. These models are designed to generate income, create value, and contribute to the overall productivity of the agri-food sector. This project aims to establish an equilibrium between the true cost of agribusiness models and the creation of additional value. The path to this equilibrium not only entails acknowledging the costs but also recognizing the untapped potential for value creation in agribusiness models. Therefore, the first step is to develop a methodological framework tailored to agri-food systems that identifies their values and establishes robust evaluation pathways. This framework can then be applied to existing agribusiness models to assess the values associated with them. Another critical aspect is analyzing whether the cost of incorporating these values exceeds their added value. Lastly, the novel agribusiness models will be tested with stakeholders and their upscaling and outscaling possibilities will be investigated. In conclusion, the project aims to cultivate innovative agribusiness models that strike a balance between economic, social, and environmental costs and value.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Anougmar Soukaina
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project builds further on the work done for the CE Center (Circular Economy Policy Research Center) regarding the downscaling of the material footprint target for Flanders to specific products, processes and needs. This work is currently elaborated by the STEN group in Ghent University (led by Professor Dewulf) in collaboration with the EnvEcon group of University of Antwerp (led by Professor Van Passel). The project will also keep close ties with the E4BE project (Brain-Belspo) on a just and acceptable climate tax shift for Belgium, for which professor Bachus is one of the co-promoters. In addition, the project has linkages to parts of two Horizon Europe projects that Prof. Bleys and Dr. Silvi work on, namely: ToBe (Towards a sustainable wellbeing economy: integrated policies and transformative indicators) and MERGE (Measuring what matters: Improving usability and accessibility of policy frameworks and indicators for multidimensional well-being through collaboration). To mitigate climate change, a fast reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is required. Although currently changes in the supply side have attracted most attention, these measures are insufficient to deliver on the Paris agreement goals. Recent research featured in the latest IPCC report highlights the potential of demand-side measures. Such measures target changes in consumption patterns and can complement current supply side measures, reducing emissions up to 40 to 70% by 2050. The link between our consumption and well-being is not straightforward. Consumption corridors provide a floor level given by a sufficient level of human need fulfilment, and a ceiling level, above which consumption is unsustainable. Some consumption corridors have already been calculated, but most of these are examples of one product fulfilling only one human need. In addition, which demand-side measures would be required to move within these consumption corridors and how they could be implemented has not been assessed yet. In the DEER project, the effects of demand-side measures on human well-being will be analysed from an environmental, social, economic and policy perspectives. For this, the literature on human needs will be reviewed linking the different human needs to their required products. Products/ services related to thermal comfort and mobility in the region of Flanders will be selected. Sufficiency levels for the human needs will be defined and quantified. Applicable demand-side measures will be identified and their impact on carbon and material footprints of the selected needs will be assessed. In parallel, for the selected demand-side measures, economic and social assessments will be performed, including the analysis of consumers' willingness to adapt. Lastly, the demand-side measures will be fit in policy instruments and mixes that can achieve optimal environmental effectiveness while minimising undesirable side effects will be assessed and presented as policy recommendations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Bachus Kris

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The process of resource extraction takes a significant toll on the environment, climate, biodiversity, and the overall livability of our planet. Through proper processing of end-of-life products and material flows for reintegration into the forward supply chain, defined as circular supply chain management, this impact can be drastically reduced. Circularity considerations, however, are expensive and require the collaboration of various stakeholders, including, among others, manufacturers, customers, recycling plants, and the government. The CIRCUS project aims to develop generic circular supply chain optimization models to facilitate the development and deployment of cost-effective and environmentally friendly circular supply chains. The envisaged models are simple (i.e., avoiding all unnecessary complexity), generic (i.e., applicable within a broad range of industries and circularity strategies), and aligned with a multi-stakeholder reality. As such, we will provide decision-makers at various levels and aiming for different objectives with clear guidance on how to seize benefits and engage in circular supply chain practices.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Defryn Christof
• Co-promoter: Nimmegeers Philippe
• Fellow: Langenaeker Alix

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Climate warming means Flemish quality wine without sustainable solutions. Viticulture and vinification lead to resource depletion, inefficient use of materials, high energy and water consumption. Sectoral-regional environmental impact research will improve polluting processes in Flanders, such as in traditional wine regions. The University of Antwerp and Vicky Corbeels offer region- and sector-specific circular solutions to Flemish wine production, which is becoming a pioneer in cool-climate wines.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

EnvEcon studies the interaction between economy, technology and the environment. The researchers of EnvEcon are part of the department of Engineering Management (Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp). EnvEcon performs excellent solution-oriented research to address sustainability challenges and problems in their economic context. EnvEcon has four research lines: i) the Economics of Climate Change and Adaptation, ii) the Circular and Biobased Economy, iii) Sustainable Development of Socio-Ecological Systems, iv) Energy Transition and Green Chemistry. A broad range of expertise is developed: conceptual and methodological aspects of assessing sustainability, techno-economic assessment, valuation of environmental impacts and the economic impact of climate change. This project proposal will focus on our research line of the economics of climate change and adaptation. The ambition is to strengthen the position of EnvEcon of being a leading European group with the following focus: 1) Develop and submit European project (Horizon Europe) proposals on climate change adaptation; 2) Participate in European and African networks to develop research tracks and new collaborations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Bjornavold Amalie
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Increasingly, cities aim at improving the sustainability and efficiency of their urban supply chains, by restricting the use of certain vehicles or improving collaboration among supply chain actors. Additionally, new technologies and trends are emerging, e.g., micro consolidation centers, sidewalk robots, autonomous vehicles, synchromodality, etc. These trends generate a myriad of difficult intertwined strategic and operational decision problems. Currently, however, the optimization and simulation tools required to support decision-making in such a complex environment are (1) disjointed and scattered across the scientific literature, or (2) not mature enough to adequately handle emerging urban logistic trends. To bridge this gap in the literature, and to aid cities and supply chain actors in modelling and optimizing the supply chains, we propose to develop a comprehensive and complementary suite of urban logistics optimization algorithms for "the" city. These problems of optimizing urban supply chains are typically large-scale, multi-level and multi-objective. In order to appropriately model and solve these problems, significant advances in operations research techniques are required. They will ultimately contribute to improving the understanding of the impact of new technologies, trends, and policies for all urban logistics stakeholders, and support their decisions towards a more sustainable city.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goal of this project is to develop a suite of models and algorithms to optimize urban logistics operations. Different from other similar endeavors, our algorithms will focus specifically on the urban context and will take into account the measures taken by city administrations that have an impact on the logistics operations on their territory. Such measures might include car-free zones, specific parking spaces or time windows for truck deliveries, a ban on certain vehicles in certain areas, etc. The algorithms will allow for an evaluation of the impact of these measures in order to assist in reducing the negative effects of logistics operations on the livability of the city and to strengthen the competitiveness of the supply chain actors. Contrary to existing urban logistics optimization problems, the models developed in this project will be based on an in-depth economic analysis. The algorithms will be able to support both strategic, tactical, and operational decisions and will be usable by (1) a single company, (2) a coalition of cooperating companies, and (3) the city administration. The project focuses on four flows, i.e., important logistics streams within the city: waste collection, construction logistics (moving building materials into the city), hospitality and health logistics (deliveries of food and other products to hotels, bars, restaurants, retirement homes, etc.), and grocery delivery (from supermarkets and other food suppliers to individual customers). The algorithms will be developed for several specific logistics scenarios based on the supply chains operated by the companies collaborating in this project. They will, however, be generic enough to later be extended to other use cases. Methodologically, the algorithms developed in this project will be based on state-of-the-art heuristic optimization. An innovative aspect of this project is that we will develop a common trunk, i.e., a set of data models and algorithmic operators that are general enough to function across a wide range of use cases. This common trunk will allow for the rapid development of specific models and algorithms for the various scenarios. Furthermore, the algorithms and models developed in this project will optimize logistic flows while taking into account person mobility to properly account for the integrated city perspective. The specific results that will be realized by the project are summarized below. A suite of algorithms to optimize urban supply chains; for each of the four flows identified before, optimization algorithms will be developed and demonstrated. Whenever possible, these algorithms will be defined at the level of the common trunk. However, the algorithms will be fine-tuned to the specific needs of the logistic operations of each flow. Quantitative/economic analysis of collaboration opportunities; specifically for each of the four flows that are considered, the economics of operation of the supply chain actors are quantified, and the potential of optimized collaboration in a realistic setting (a chosen city) is assessed. Quantitative/economic assessment of mobility measures; for each of the four cities considered in this project, a list of potential logistics-oriented mobility measures is compiled. For each of the flows and cities, the impact of these mobility measures on the operations of supply chain actors is assessed. Decision support to optimize operations with respect to city mobility measures taking into account a company-level perspective as well as the societal perspective. Insight in and support for collaborative gain sharing; based on insights from the optimization simulations, interactions with supply chain actors and cities, and on research, alternatives of collaborative gain sharing will be compared and evaluated in light of fairness, complexity (ease of real-life implementation), and the ability to sustain independently of subsidies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Beckers Joris
• Co-promoter: Vanelslander Thierry

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The SusSy project will focus on the development of a framework for the identification of environmental KPIs and how to embed these in the different stages of the Product Development Process (PDP). SusSy focuses on the PDP stages that cover product requirements and the system, module & part design. Such a framework will indicate whether it is necessary to frontload design decisions that have a smaller impact on economic and technical KPIs, but that have a major impact on environmental KPIs. The approach is summarized in three steps, (i) identifying the environmental KPIs to (ii) embed in a PDP and to (iii) decide on acceptable trade-offs between cost, performance and environmental sustainability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Campine Basin is a unique geological hotspot, that is increasingly being targeted to achieve energy security and environmental objectives. However, subsurface space is limited and competition between subsurface usages is increasing. To review policies for planning and managing potential resource interactions (either adverse or beneficial) and to set priorities if needed, it is key to create methods for a detailed hydrogeological characterization of these subsurface interactions, accounting for associated above-ground social, environmental, and economic impacts. Therefore, we unite expertise of (inter)national hydrogeological research units to develop dynamic, loosely coupled hydrogeological models that allow for large scale simulations, while remaining accurate for a single activity, and that are able to handle uncertain geological contexts. In addition, we will integrate this innovative hydrogeological method to advanced methods of Environmental Economics and Social Sciences to create an understanding about (i) the indicators for sustainable subsurface development, (ii) above-ground environmental, economic, and social impacts, (iii) and how to make model results transparent. These methods will allow to determine threshold values that must be met to respect subsurface, environmental, economic, and social criteria for the sustainable management of geological resources in Belgium and beyond. Stakeholders from the public and private sector as well as local communities are involved in the research activities to better understand their perception on the sustainable and just development of the subsurface. Knowledge transfer tools tailored to stakeholders' needs will be created allowing them (i) to come to a structural vision on the sustainable development of the Campine basin, (ii) to manage and regulate interacting subsurface activities for the long-term, and (iii) to match subsurface use with aboveground sustainability objectives.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

EnvEcon studies the interaction between economy, technology and the environment. The researchers of EnvEcon are part of the department of Engineering Management (Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp). EnvEcon performs excellent solution-oriented research to address sustainability challenges and problems in their economic context. The research team, led by Steven Van Passels, is a mix of senior researchers (10 postdocs) and junior researchers (30 PhD students) with support of about 40 ongoing projects (Horizon Europe, Belspo, FWO, VLAIO, FOD, …) EnvEcon has four research lines: i) the Economics of Climate Change and Adaptation, ii) the Circular and Biobased Economy, iii) Sustainable Development of Socio-Ecological Systems, iv) Energy Transition and Green Chemistry. A broad range of expertise is developed: conceptual and methodological aspects of assessing sustainability, techno-economic assessment, valuation of environmental impacts and the economic impact of climate change. This project proposal will focus on cross-cutting research and knowledge valorization of techno-sustainability assessments and environmental valuation. The ambition is to strengthen the position of EnvEcon of being a leading European group with the following focus: 1) Develop and submit European project (Horizon Europe) proposals on environmental valuation and sustainability assessment with EnvEcon in a leading position. 2) Participate in European project proposals as work package leader to extend the techno-sustainability assessment framework and increase the visibility of our research track 3) Explore the potential of the EnvEcon expertise of the "greener cities business model" as starting point of a service platform.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The chemical industry is facing a revolutionary transition to stabilise the environmental carbon cycle. To accomplish this daunting objective, fossil-fuel dependent technologies have to be progressively phased out and replaced by sustainable alternatives. However, these alternative technologies are still under development. Yet, their sustainability has to be assessed ex-ante. The sustainability assessment (SA) methods available in literature are primarily ex-post, and thus not suitable for assessing developing technologies. The integrated techno-sustainability assessment (TSA) jointly developed by VITO, UAntwerp and UHasselt is a state-of-the art integrated SA framework. Whereas this method accounts for uncertainty, it does not address the challenge of upscaling and learning. This research project will integrate upscaling and learning to the SA framework.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Dasi Pranita Shankar Rao

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Despite the presence of major water bodies in north western Ethiopia, the region's key concerns include a poor livelihood condition, lack of diversified livelihood alternatives and food insecurity. Furthermore, smallholder farmers have faced dwindling land holdings as a result of rapidly growing population and urbanization, which has exacerbated the roles of livelihood strategies and climate change adaptation options, resulting in food insecurity. The majority of the country's urban areas have been rapidly expanding by consuming urban peripheral lands. Hence, this subproject aims to improve the research competence of Bahir Dar University's academic staff and disseminate the first phase's research findings, with collaboration with VLIR. The subproject has identified 3 research problems: tourism governance, economics of climate change adaptation options and the nexus between urbanisation and food security.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Subsurface pore space is a valuable commodity, fixed geographically but subject to multiple uses over time. Because the subsurface is an interlinked system, competition between subsurface uses is likely to increase. It is currently too difficult to establish an effective policy framework for managing interference effects because existing assessment models focus on single subsurface activities and do not quantify the interactions between different uses. The proposed MASSIF project aims to advance scientific research through the development of an interdisciplinary and dynamic modelling framework integrating innovative loosely-coupled hydrogeological models with economic real option games and territorial environmental life cycle assessment. This modelling framework will be applied to the Campine Basin, using data records from the natural gas storage site, nearby geothermal applications, the overlying aquifers and two monitoring stations to be installed at wells near Merksplas. We will quantify (i) the interactions effects between different subsurface uses, (ii) the boundary conditions for subsurface activities to take place simultaneously, (iii) trade-offs in hydro-geological, environmental and economic impacts, and (iv) the risk-benefit balance. MASSIF lays the fundamentals for a more generic methodological framework applicable to other subsurface uses, to study synergies, and to assess other aspects (geo-mechanical, social) as well as policy instruments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

BLUE4ALL will align top-down regulatory demands about European (networks of) MPAs with bottom-up societal expectations as a guarantee for achieving effective, efficient and resilient MPAs and networks of MPAs which meet EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 objectives. By mobilizing stakeholders from BLUE4ALL's 25 information sites and Living Labs, i.e. locations across the Mediterranean Sea, the Baltic Sea and the North-East Atlantic regions where (networks of) MPAs have been established and from which lessons learned can be drawn about success and failure relative to how challenges were tackled, we will co-create robust and replicable social, governance, ecological and environmental tools to meet conservation and/or restoration objectives in socially sustainable and acceptable ways. These science-based tools will be tested in Living Labs, i.e. locations where (networks of) MPAs are in the process of establishment and where these tools can be fed into the ongoing MPA process. The operationalized and tested frameworks will ultimately be generalized into a Blueprint Platform for the co-creation of effective, efficient and resilient (networks of) MPAs. This scheme will separate generically encountered challenges and applied solutions from MPA (network)-specific challenges and solutions and develop guidance in a user friendly manner to end-users (i.e. MPA (network) managers and authorities). This guidance will take the shape of an interactive web based Blueprint Platform directing the end-users to those challenges and solutions most applicable to their site(s). User-friendliness and applicability will be maximized by cross-checking the Blueprint Platform development with the actors and stakeholders of the Living Labs throughout the whole process of its development. Knowledge transfer and interaction with stakeholders and society-at-large at local to regional scales will lead to the development of a platform for MPA networking to interact with communities of practice boosting the BLUE4ALL legacy to its ultimate goal to restore our oceans and waters

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Bjornavold Amalie
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Flemish Government is advised on the elaboration of energy and climate policy in Flanders by a VEKP Follow-up Panel specifically established for this purpose. The expertise available in the various universities and research institutions must be valorized and included in the monitoring and adjustment of energy and climate policy and the VEKP. The experts can also provide guidance on further concretizing the policy lines included in the VEKP and the Flemish Climate Strategy 2050, as well as make proposals for appropriate measures to achieve these desired objectives. In March 2019, the Flemish Government established a VEKP Follow-up Panel, which consists of a core group of experts in the areas of transport, buildings, agriculture and renewable energy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Knowledge gap: assessing the potential social impact of large scale industrial activity, particularly in a planning stage remains a huge challenge, in spite of a vast and growing literature on Social Impact Assessment (SIA) or Social Life Cycle Analysis (SLCA), and continuous and expanding efforts to develop a standardized methodology comparable to environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) (Alomoto et al., 2022). This challenge becomes even bigger in relation to deep subsurface activity, as the link to society is less visible. Attempts to develop generic key social categories and indicators for particular technologies (e.g. Rafiaani et al. (2020) for CCUS) tend to focus on socio-economic indicators such as employment impact, or public health indicators, strongly related to environmental impact indicators. This is partly due to the relatively easy measurability of such indicators, as compared to less tangible and more qualitative issues, such as social capital or cohesion. Objective: we will develop a framework for qualitative social impact analysis as a tool for identifying pathways for impacting (positively or negatively) the social fabric and amenity value of affected communities as plans and projects for subsurface activities develop. Rather than explicitly weighing and predicting these impact, such a framework aims to raise awareness of the evolutive process of the mutual shaping of large scale subsurface projects and their social environment on the surface, and to provide guidance on how to assure a 'just' subsurface policy and planning culture. Task 1: Literature study to collect possible indicators and methods for assessing social impact through stakeholder engagement and pluralistic value judgements with environmental justice as a leading framework. Task 2 Stakeholder mapping: (a) identify relevant actors and potentially affected groups; as well as (b) their perceptions and concerns vis-à-vis potential subsurface activities in their environment; and (c) their interest in and needs regarding participation in the related decisionmaking process [focus on Recognition Justice].

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

There is irrefutable evidence that climate change is influencing our world. Human activities are estimated to already have caused approximately 1.0°C of global warming above pre-industrial levels and global warming is likely to reach 1.5°C between 2030 and 2052 [1]. While the emissions dropped with 5.8% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the carbon emissions already rebound to near prepandemic levels as demand for coal, oil and gas are increasing [2]. Potential impacts are numerous, e.g., hot extremes in most inhabited regions, heavy precipitation, drought and precipitation deficits, impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems including species loss and extinction. We observe associated climate risks to health, food security, water supply and mitigation and climate adaptation needs [1]. In addition, waste generation is growing and poor air quality remains a problem. In Europe, 21% of citizens were exposed to O3 and 10% to PM10 levels above EU standards and radical changes to energy, food systems and industry are needed [3]. An environmental challenge is the nitrogen loss to the environment with serious impacts on water quality and biodiversity. The environmental and climatic challenges are global, local and systemic. Achieving sustainability requires fundamental, transformative, and cross-cutting changes, especially for systems related to food, energy, and construction.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Coupled environmental, techno-economic and social impact assessment of the different Negative Emission Technologies (NETs) used in C-Farms. Large-scale NETs implementation will only happen if techno-economic, energetic, environmental and social barriers are overcome. We will assess economic and energy viability, environmental and social impacts in an integrated way by a multi-criteria assessment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ALIGNED project will deliver a modelling framework to assess and optimise the environmental and socio-economic performance of bio-based industries. ALIGNED will advance the scientific field of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) (moving from TRL2-3 to TRL5) and collaborate with industries and representatives from five bio-based sectors: construction, woodworking, textile, pulp and paper, and bio-chemicals. The transition towards a sustainable economy is dependent on consistent and comparable environmental assessments of bio-based products. However, in practice today the methods to assess the impact of bio-based products give incomparable results, thus confusing decision-making. The models and tools developed in ALIGNED will allow to perform high-quality assessment studies across the bio-based sectors, with industrial relevance and interoperability. This is possible by the iterative application and improvement of the new and harmonised models and tools in five specific cases of bio-based industrial technologies (TRL 2-6), one for each sector. The ALIGNED framework will allow accurately to model key aspects not covered in current practice: the competition for biomass and for land, dynamic and time-specific carbon accounting, and biodiversity and socio-economic impacts. ALIGNED will also develop future energy and resource scenarios derived from integrated assessment models, and a consistent approach to uncertainty assessment. Key stakeholders in the five sectors will be continuously involved, by providing feedback in the early framework development and by sharing the learnings from its practical application. The professional engagement of stakeholders will secure industry relevance and acceptance delivering real impact.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Buyle Matthias
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) is highly vulnerable to climate change and climate variability and is already experiencing increased intensities and frequencies of severe, climate change-related weather events, causing significant interruptions of economic activities, destruction and losses. Climate change is also expected to increase the rate of environmental degradation, spread of disease vectors, increase the frequency and severity of floods and droughts and increase food insecurity. Poverty and low adaptive capacity are expected to aggravate the likely impacts. Substantial efforts are needed to progress towards more resilient communities and ecosystems in the LVB. In project 5, the resilience of the LVB communities and ecosystems is strengthened from an interdisciplinary point of view, ranging from a better understanding of climate change impacts and the adoption of solutions to become more resilient at household, farm and landscape scale.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

BEvitalise aims to promote circular and climate-conscious consumption patterns through a better understanding of the way in which Belgian consumers make purchasing decisions. Belgium's continued transition to a circular economy has the potential to deliver important benefits – from reduced pressure on the environment, supply security, and increased competitiveness, innovation, and growth. To deliver these benefits, consumers have a vital role to play in this transition. Understanding the preferences underlying Belgian consumers' decision-processes is therefore key to transform the traditional economic model based on the 'take-make-consume-throw away' pattern. The way the market is currently structured means that information on the product is often lacking, inaccurate or misleading. While Belgium's three regions have used an effective mix of policy instruments to achieve prominent levels of recovery and recycling of municipal waste and other waste streams, a key challenge for all will be to reduce the volumes of materials consumed, as well as wasted. In line with the 21 targets of the Federal Circular Economy Roadmap (as well as Circular Flanders, Circular Wallonia, and the Brussels Regional Circular Economy Strategy), further awareness-raising efforts are needed to encourage circular behaviour to reuse, repair, refurbish and recycle existing materials and products. Based on results achieved through BEvitalise, we will propose policy recommendations to better inform, incentivise and increase circular behaviour among Belgian consumers.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Bjornavold Amalie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Flanders Make core lab VCCM bundles expertise from departments in Business & Economics and Engineering Sciences & Technology at three Universities with a focus on: • The economic (cost and value) aspect throughout the supply chain and over the entire lifecycle; • The circularity and sustainability assessment and optimization; • The modeling and optimization algorithms for multi-criteria decision support.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The PATTERN project's general objective is to improve practitioners' capacity for decision making on climate and environmental policies, by developing an interactive online platform for the economic appraisal of policies and measures. To reach this general objective, the project will develop an operational integrated economic appraisal approach (WP3 and 4), deliver guidelines to bridge ex-post and exante analyses (WP1), build and demonstrate an effective participatory process to create 5 Theories of Change (WP2), build a European Community of Practice for climate and environmental policymaking (WP6), and create a One-Stop-Shop for all policy and decision makers to access and use the project results easily. PATTERN will thus provide decision-makers, stakeholders, and the public with more realistic and operational ability to systematically assess their policies and their consequences. It will provide a basis for improving (i) methodologies, techniques and models for conducting economic appraisal of climate and environmental policies (ii) the broader policy evaluation framework and practices currently used in European countries and their regions and (iii) tailored analysis and engagement strategies structures for the participation and co-creation with relevant stakeholders and key actors to enhance operational capacities and improve the impact of European policies on climate and environment. Overall, results obtained from in-depth ex-post and ex-ante analysis of the PATTERN's 5 case studies will bring new evidence on the effectiveness of various types of regulatory strategies, instruments and approaches for climate and environmental policies and insights for the design and evaluation of the implementation of major European policies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Bjornavold Amalie
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Cools Jan
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project focuses on the end-of-life phase of offshore wind farms. At the end of this decade, a number of these wind farms will be 'retired', as they are at the end of their concession. How the removal of these wind farms will take place and how the materials will be further processed is still unclear. In this research project, various scenarios for this end-of-life phase will be drawn up and calculated in terms of their economic feasibility. We will also look at alternative designs of these wind farms and how this will affect the end-of-life phase. In addition to the economic feasibility of these scenarios, the critical parameters that most influence this economic feasibility will also be determined. It will be investigated how the different materials are processed and whether they can be reused in new applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The transition towards a system with high levels of renewable energy sources requires fundamental innovations to guarantee security of supply and system stability. To accelerate the participation of low voltage flexibility as an important provider of long- and short-term system services, the project will propose solutions to remove technical, operational, social and market barriers. An in-depth understanding of consumer behaviour will form the basis of new concepts for adequacy modelling and flexibility provision. The Belgian energy system is transitioning to higher levels of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) as decentralised non-synchronous generation plants (e.g. wind and solar energy) substitute traditional large centralised synchronous electricity generation plants (e.g. gas and coal power plants). This transition challenges the grid with respect to securing supply and balancing due to increased volatility and lower predictability of RES. Moreover, the changing energy mix leads to a higher proportion of flexibility connected to the distribution grid. However, this is not the only change in flexibility expected. A sharp increase of available demand flexibility is also expected in the coming years, especially connected to the Low Voltage (LV) grid, driven by the uptake of (1) smart meters, (2) roof top photovoltaic systems, (3) home batteries, (4) electric mobility and (5) heat pumps. The radical shift in the role of consumers from passive to active participants in the energy system facilitates the advent of LV flexibility. In particular, the Clean Energy Package introduces a framework for community energy ownership, by defining two concepts for collective flexibility: the Renewable Energy Community (REC) and the Citizen Energy Community (CEC). Consequently, LV flexibility will gain importance in the coming years and has the potential to play an important role, supporting an adequate and operationally stable Belgian energy system. To accelerate the inclusion of low voltage flexibility, the project will address several key research questions to unlock the true value of low voltage flexibility. It will explore the diversity of consumer behaviour, including consumer preferences and non-rational behaviour. An in-depth understanding of consumer behaviour in the context of flexibility provision, both at an individual level or within a collective setting, will lead to a better assessment of the role that low voltage flexibility has with respect to security of supply. Moreover, this improved insight will ensure that solutions developed to remove technical and operational barriers for low voltage flexibility provision are consumer-centric, supporting maximally the uptake of low voltage flexibility.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Flemish cities are expected to take a leading role in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. At the core of these strategies are nature based solutions (NBS) by green, blue and hybrid urban infrastructures. NBS address multiple problems related to climate change in an integrated, sustainable way. Although investments in NBS infrastructures are considered a cost effective way to achieve future societal and environmental benefits, current public budgets in Flanders are insufficient. As a result, the gap between investments in and societal need for NBS is growing. In contrast to limited public budgets, there is an abundance of private capital seeking for investments. Yet, the potential to invest private capital in NBS is not fully exploited. NBS projects typically have sizeable upfront costs and diffuse and long-term societal benefits that are not easily captured in steady cash flows, making privately financed schemes often inappropriate. In order to attract private investments to NBS, new business models and alternative financing mechanisms are needed. In this project, we study the utilisation potential of innovative financing models in the Flemish context by developing real life business cases of NBS, using new instruments such as impact financing, value capturing and ICO-crowd funding. In order to develop a realistic and holistic interdisciplinary approach, this strategic research will study how new financial instruments impact planning and design, governance arrangements, valuation methods, legal institutions and instruments as well as social justice. The urban living lab approach will ensure continuous integrated assessment of the spatial, juridical, institutional, economic feasibility and social impact of the new financing business models, optimising the utilisation potential for the societal users.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

TURQUOISE therefore aims to co-create and field test a decisionsupport framework to facilitate planning and increase the implementation rate of blue-green adaptation strategies. Specific objectives to achieve the overall objective are: 1. Develop an indicator-based instrument to quantify the water availability and ecohydrological impacts on different scales and under current and future climatic conditions 2. Quantify the hydrological and ecological impact of blue-green measures at 4 pilot sites by combining in-situ monitoring (local scale) and catchment-scale hydro-ecological modelling 3. Quantify the investment needs and cost-effectiveness of combinations of blue-green measures to achieve robustness targets for the 4 pilot cases 4. Co-create and test mechanisms to accelerate the implementation rate of blue-green measures 5. Integrate the developed instruments, knowledge and data into a decision-support framework

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Geological resources play a crucial role in every-day life. The subsurface provides multiple services and a variety of activities takes place at varying depths. In Flanders, the Campine Basin is used for the seasonal storage of natural gas and this basin is currently also the sole target resource for direct use of geothermal energy production in Flanders. At more shallow depths, groundwater is being extracted and used for the production of drinking water, in the agricultural sector or in other industries. Because the number of geological formations suited for these activities is limited and because the subsurface is a complex and interlinked system, competition between subsurface uses is already taking place and is likely to increase. Subsurface activities do not operate in isolation. Past activities (like mining) have left imprints that dictate current subsurface utilizations and present subsurface activities will leave imprints that will dictate the options for future subsurface utilization. Also, different subsurface activities are operating simultaneously, like the seasonal gas storage facility in Loenhout and the geothermal energy extraction at the site of Johnson & Johnson in Beerse. At the current knowledge level, the consequences of the large spatial and temporal impact of interacting subsurface activities may result in unanticipated and irreversible environmental and economic consequences, impacting the livelihood of current and future generations. The general research objective is to develop a dynamic and interdisciplinary method to assess the hydrogeological, environmental and economic impacts of different subsurface development options through time, taking into account interaction effects between subsurface activities, different sources of uncertainty and flexibility options. Hydrogeological models that assess interference effects between subsurface activities will be integrated with environmental economics models. The economic modelling approach combines principles of the real options theory and game theory to simulate and assess strategic decision-making processes under multiple sources of uncertainty. Environmental impacts are calculated based on a novel territorial life cycle assessment to account for spatial variability and to create knowledge about the geological parameters that contribute the most to overall local and regional environmental impacts of subsurface activities. Based on the results we will get insights about (i) the geological and economic boundary conditions that determine the selection of a specific pathway, (2) the environmental economic costs and benefits associated with interfering subsurface activities, (iii) the options that can be considered as most valuable to manage the risk of negatively interfering subsurface activities, and (iv) about how to plan simultaneously or consecutively operating subsurface activities such that the subsurface can be developed at the highest expected reward and the lowest expected economic and environmental risks.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Fellow: Eswaran Adithya

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Climate change impacts are here and now. The impacts on people, prosperity and planet are already pervasive but unevenly distributed, as stated in the new EU Blueprint strategy (European Commission-EC, 2019). To reduce climate-related risks, the EC and the IPCC agree that transformational adaptation is essential. The TranformAr project aims to develop and demonstrate products and services to launch and accelerate large-scale and disruptive adaptive process for transformational adaptation in vulnerable regions and communities across Europe. The 6 TransformAr lighthouse demonstrators face a common challenge: water-related risks and impacts of climate change. Based on existing successful initiatives, the project will develop, test and demonstrate solutions and pathways, integrated in Innovation Packages, in 6 territories.Transformational pathways, including an integrated risk assessment approach are co-developed by means of 9 Transformational Adaptive Blocks. A set of 22 tested actionable adaptive solutions are tested and demonstrated, ranging from nature-based solutions, innovative technologies, financing, insurance and governance models, awareness and behavioral change solutions. The project team, led by the University of Antwerp, gathers 22 partners from 11 countries and a well-balanced mix of sectoral and adaptation experts (5 RTOs and 1 SME), paired with 6 territories (4 local authorities and 2 charities), 8 additional solutions providers and 1 EU water-related NPO specialized that will support to structure a European Community of practice. Massive resilience increase and acceleration of transformation adaptation will be fostered by clustering various investors, testing bankable solutions, and defining viable (non-)commercial exploitation strategy for the TransformAr solutions, products and services.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Cools Jan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

TransformAr aims to develop and demonstrate solutions and pathways to achieve rapid and far-reaching transformational adaptation (TA) across the EU. Cross-sectoral and multi-scale innovation packages, as the combination of solutions and pathways, will support regions and communities in their societal transformation towards climate change resilience. Region-specific portfolios (RSPs) including Nature-Based Solutions, innovative technologies, financing, insurance and governance models, awareness and behavioural change are co-developed and demonstrated. Transformational adaptation will be triggered by a co-innovation process that will co-create transformational adaptation pathways for six demonstrator regions and communities in Europe. The pathway cocreation process is supported by user-friendly, accessible, and comprehensive multi-sector dynamics data services. The data services fit to the needs of public and private investors, including citizens in TA. To accelerate investment in climate change adaptation (CCA), and to enable that plans are brought into practice, TransformAr also demonstrates the potential of business models and alternative finance mechanisms for transformation adaptation. A European Community of Practice will furthermore be organised and institutionalised to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and other resources that may help to overcome barriers, implement, and accelerate opportunities.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project is about explaining the decisions made by Artificial Intelligence (AI) prediction models, and the use thereof to gain global insights into the models and knowledge of the world. Advances in AI are spurred mainly by deep learning (artificial neural networks) and the availability of massive image, textual and behavioural data. This has led to great predictive accuracies, with positive economical and societal implications, but also to very complex models. Explaining the predictions of such "black box" models has gained increasing attention of the AI research community. However, the current approaches and results only scratch the surface of the potential of this "explainable AI" research. The main objective of this proposal is to push the frontiers of the research by putting forward the Evidence Counterfactual (EdC) as a paradigm within explainable AI. The project will look at how the Evidence Counterfactual can be used to generate explanations that lead to novel insights into the AI model and the world (improve insight), and to validate the new methodologies in a variety of applications, ranging from insurance to political science. Trying to explain how things work is a central driver in science. In that context, this project is not only a fundamental but also a logical next step in AI research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This WOG brings together a large network of renowned experts in the OR community that are working on real-world logistics optimization problems. By sharing knowledge we can contribute to closing that gap between research and practice and have a significant impact on the efficiency and sustainability of the logistics sector. Applications drive research and often require solving ever larger and more complex models of real-world optimization problems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Cornelissens Trijntje

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ADV_BIO project aims to develop, through innovative and competitive approaches, advanced (bio)fuels from renewable non-food resources that do not generate waste. This project focuses on the development of innovative and competitive technological production schemes in order to position Belgium as a strategic and differentiated partner and actor for the eco-efficient production of second and third generation alternative advanced (bio)fuels. Biofuels from renewable resources for non-food use that do not cause indirect land use changes are envisioned as established by the Renewable Energy Directive Directive 2018/2001 adopted in December 2018 by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers of the European Union. The ADV_BIO project therefore aims to study the removal of technological barriers related to these alternative fuels by offering a decision-making grid through innovative research actions, differentiated, adapted to the requirements of the national territory. The new products, whether they are adapted to road or air transport, will have a chemical composition that will enable them to meet the specifications of the fuel industry. The project focuses on biomass as a feedstock for the production of alternative fuels (biofuels and synthetic fuels) as defined in Directive 2014/94/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22/10/2014 on the deployment of an infrastructure for alternative fuels, paragraphs 4 and 6, and on the Commission Communication of 24/01/2013 "Clean energy and transport: the European strategy for strategy for alternative fuels". To carry out this ADV_BIO project, the project will focus on non-food biomasses, namely microalgae and lignocellulosic materials, which have a risk of have a low risk of Indirect Land Use Change as foreseen in the Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion the use of energy from renewable sources and its recast of 13 March 2019 describing the specification of sustainability criteria for biofuels. To carry out this research, four universities are involved: the University of Liège (ULiege), the Catholic University of Leuven (UCLouvain), Ghent University (UGent) and the University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) through 6 distinct research groups covering aspects of physiology, genetical modification, chemical engineering, energy and environmental economics and quantitative sustainability assessments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Societal Challenge The subsurface is a valuable but vulnerable resource that needs careful management. However, at present the subsurface is allocated ad-hoc and current studies on subsurface activities (e.g. CCS, geothermal energy) merely focus on the technology and do not consider the subsurface as a geological resource that requires a sustainable and dynamic management given geotechnical and economic uncertainties. Challenges relate to i) the pressures that geological resource use exerts on the geological and biophysical environment, ii) unfair distribution of geological resources, iii) failing policy instruments, and iv) uncertainties. Objective An inter-institutional team of PhDs and contractual researchers led by the FED-tWIN researcher will be established, which addresses the challenges associated with the sustainable and dynamic management of geological resources. The lead time of 10 years is used to specialise in i) defining a geological and sustainable scale of subsurface use taking into account the interference of subsurface activities, ii) the development of geological economic decision support models to evaluate the conservation, prioritization, and equitable allocation of geological resources, iii) the assessment of collective governance structures to deal with environmental impacts, iv) the development of real options models and adaptive co-management frameworks to take into account the irreversible consequences of subsurface activities, different types of uncertainty, and the flexibility options that firms and policy makers have. This sound knowledge base will be internationally advanced and guarantees successful, long-term research in the field of geological and ecological economics under the auspices of the RBINS and the University of Antwerp (UAntwerp).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research team Environmental Economics (EnvEcon) works as part of the department of Engineering management of the Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Antwerp and as part of the Institute of Environment and sustainable development (IMDO). EnvEcon works on (i) environmental valuation methods, (ii) systemic techno-economic assessments; (iii) sustainability assessment methods. The majority of the PhD students of the EnvEvcon group (about 20 researchers in total) work on projects assessing techno-economic and sustainability performance of emerging environmental and energy technologies (enhanced landfill mining, plastic recycling, biowood valorization, biorefineries, carbon capture and utilization, encapsulation, etc…) with funding of FWO-SBO, Catalisti, VITO and EU H2020 MSCA-ETN. We developed a systemic techno-economic assessment approach integrating environmental aspects with techno-economic analysis. Research on environmental valuation methods focuses on the economic value of climate change adaptation and the valuation of ecosystem services. Steven Van Passel developed the first European Ricardian model, measuring the economic impact of climate change on agriculture. In addition, EnvEcon develops sustainability metrics (e.g. sustainable value approach). The environmental valuation This project proposal will bridge environmental economics and sustainability assessment. The ambition is to strengthen the position of EnvEcon of being a leading European group with the following focus: 1) Develop and submit European project (Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, JPI Climate, JPI FACCE,…) proposals on environmental valuation and sustainability assessment with EnvEcon in a leading position. 2) Participate in European project proposals as partner/work package leader to further develop the systemic techno-economic assessments and increase the visibility of our research track. 3) Further expand the research network and the working area including also developing countries. 4) Stimulate EnvEcon researchers to participate in project writing of European project and individual scholarships. This project will be used as leverage to increase the participation of the EnvEcon research team in European projects. Researchers (postdoc(s), scientific team member(s)) will be (part-time) hired to write together on proposals with the ambition to (part-time) work on approved projects, and as such this project can support the development of several European project proposals. methods and sustainability assessments are applied on cases in both developed and developing countries (mainly Africa).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In order to meet climate goals and provide energy security, geothermal energy can play an important part in the energy production portfolio. The current implementation of geothermal energy in Belgium is very limited and making accurate predictions about its economic potential is difficult clue to large uncertainties. The DESIGNATE project will develop tools and workflows for investigating the potential of deep geothermal energy and geothermal applications in abandoned mines in Belgium, while considering uncertainty at reservoir, technology and economic level. The classical approach of using a limited number of numerical reservoir simulations as input into economic models often falls short in the fields of uncertainties, investment risk and regional energy and environmental simulations. Analytical models can provide fast and continuous results with an accurate representation of uncertainty into techno-economic and environmental models. The DESIGNATE project will develop analytical models for different geological settings and technological applications. This becomes challenging when stepping away from simple well designs and homogenous reservoirs, and including uncertainty. These analytical models will provide direct input for a geological techno-economic assessment (G-TEA) and a territorial life cycle assessment (LCA). The G-TEA wi ll include decision tree analysis and Real Options analysis for allowing flexible adjustment to uncertainty. The territorial LCA approach will include determining impacts on the surface and subsurface, with a time and spatial aspect. Both G-TEA and LCA results will be coupled to provide a full overview of impacts of geothermal projects. In parallel, the current version of the Policy Support System (PSS) for geological C02 storage will be converted to make integrated forecasts under uncertainty on the deployment of geothermal projects in a regional context. PSS Geothermal will simulate making investment decisions on geotherma l projects by using optionality and nested Monte Carlo calculations for limited foresight. Project development is simulated considering the analytical reservoir models as resource, the technical and economic aspects of project development, heat transport,energy demand, energy market and the policy framework. A highly multi-disciplinary approach is necessary to successfully complete this integration.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project concerns the development of data mining techniques with applications in the broad business administration domain. From a theoretical perspective, several rule induction techniques (AntMiner+ and ALBA) and data analysis frameworks have been developed. The final acceptability of the models is always of primary concern in the research by including domain knowledge and focusing on comprehensible data mining models. From an application perspective, the P.I. works mainly in a credit risk management and marketing setting, as well as innovatively applied data mining in the software engineering, auditing and corporate performance domains. Current and future research further expands on previous findings, among others moving from classification to regression techniques and frameworks. Additionally, a strong focus on the use of networked data is envisioned, one of the key research directions in current data mining research. How to obtain and apply such data when no explicit social network is available, such as in the banking industry, constitutes one of the core theoretical research objectives. Marketing applications include the prediction of response, churn and wallet share, while an interesting risk management application is credit scoring, both at the retail and corporate level.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Wim Verbeke is full professor of agro-food marketing and consumer behavior (Ghent University). He is involved in academic education and scientific research in the areas of economics, food marketing, market research and consumer behavior. His research focuses on food consumption, decision-making by stakeholders and consumers, perception and acceptance of agricultural and food production technologies, and food products or product concepts. Specific research interests are in the area of ​​the impact of information and communication on food quality, safety, health and sustainability, and the influence of marketing activities and individual difference variables on people's perceptions, attitudes and behavior as citizens and consumers towards of food and food production and processing methods.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Dens Nathalie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Climate change is accelerating and our society is running out of time to stop this devasting trend. Emerging technologies are currently under development to counteract this trend. The urgency to have sustainable solutions makes it equally important for technologies to be profitable and environmentally desirable. However, they are often at the early development stage making their commercial success uncertain. The goal of my research is to develop a groundbreaking innovative interdisciplinary assessment framework – integrating real options (ROA) and consequential life cycle assessment (cLCA) within a techno-economic assessment structure – to dynamically and prospectively assess the commercialization time of emerging technologies based on future economic investment timing and future environmental impacts. I will advance the framework further by incorporating several trends of our society (socio-economic, environmental, and political) and harmonize this data to be utilized in both approaches (ROA and cLCA). Finally, the framework will be validated by a comparison of the emerging technologies with similar existing technologies by ex-ante & ex-post analyses, respectively.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Tschulkow Maxim

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To reach the sustainability goals of the European Commission towards climate-neutrality, decarbonization of energy supply and electrification of most other sectors are set as key objectives on the policy agenda. The pursuit of these objectives introduces novel difficulties due to the emergence of an energy system with divergent properties to those of the traditional, centralized approach to energy production and distribution. First of all, renewable resources are more decentrally located and adopted by the end-user connected to the distribution grid. In addition, they are intermittent by nature and show a growing interaction between various energy carriers resulting from the electrification of sectors such as heat, electricity, and gas. This can impact grid operability, leading to challenges in balancing and forecasting energy supply, as well as grid congestion. To tackle this, the system is in need of increased levels of flexibility. All these facts present barriers to the efficient use of renewable sources and cause challenges to achieve a 100%-renewable energy system in a timely way.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Over the last decades, Africa's agricultural sector has experienced significant changes. Some of these changes, amongst others, relate to the changing environment, the growing population, and evolving diets. Several international organizations state that the development of sustainable and resilient value chains is needed to reduce food insecurity, poverty, and environmental footprints. Moreover, they argue that a systemic approach is needed to connect production and consumption. In other words, understanding sustainable food value chains (SFVCs) through supply and demand. Still, studies about consumers' and farmers' preferences regarding SFVCs in Africa are practically non-existent and this research proposal can help fill this research gap. This research aims to understand the potential acceptance and interest of African consumers and farmers in sustainable food value chains. This will be done by means of a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) with 300 consumers and 200 farmers in Nairobi and Siaya county. More specifically this research aims to (1) disclose the perception and motivation of African farmers to (dis-)adopt climate robust practices; (2) and gain insight in the willingness of African consumers to buy sustainable food products. Moreover, besides the relevance of the research topic, this research will provide valuable methodological insights into how the Q-Methodology (Q) can be used in parallel with DCE. By applying Q in the past, we gained a better understanding of the perceptions towards SFVC by both Kenyan farmers and consumers. The Q results will be used either for defining the attributes of a DCE, or to validate the results of the DCE. This combination of both methods has rarely been used but shows great potential to combine qualitative with quantitative research

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Mental time travel (MTT) is the ability to decouple from the present and simulate experiences from the past and into the future. In humans, MTT is fundamental for solving problems by anticipating results of actions based on past experiences. The contentious question whether non-human animals possess MTT abilities can be answered by carefully crafting species-specific tasks to investigate how animals make use of space and time when solving problems. Dolphins, bats and parrots are suitable candidates for animals that may possess MTT abilities. They have excellent spatial orientation skills and live in fission-fusion societies where they track, cooperate and compete with conspecifics. Having MTT abilities would make it possible for them to e.g., collect memories of foraging and roosting sites across changing seasons and contexts, and in connection with particular conspecifics and heterospecifics. Animals could use such information for their future-oriented decision-making, e.g., of which individuals to join for the next foraging trip. We hypothesize that marine mammals, bats and parrots will exhibit evidence of MTT but on different time scales, depending on their ecology and physiology. We propose to study how our phylogenetically diverse model groups travel mentally through space-time, and to what extent they exchange temporal information with conspecifics to solve naturalistic tasks. We explore all core components of mental time travel: Time perception, episodic memory and future planning. We compare MTT in animals that operate in 3D space, both under water and in air, employing naturalistic, ecologically valid and species-specific tasks. Our goal is to use similar approaches and procedures across our model species, so that we can compare and contrast the cognitive processes that lie at the core of MTT. Discoveries from biological systems are implemented in robotic platforms that permit systematic manipulation of independent variables and hypothesis testing of MTT mechanisms. Results from robotic experiments will be used to further refine animal experiments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To address climate change and environmental degradation, the EU has set objectives with net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 to become the first climate-neutral continent. Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) is expected to be one of the key technological solutions as it allows to address inevitable GHG emissions. To establish CCUS value chains and stimulate investments to ensure adequate scale and availability of the technology, it is crucial to understand, develop and implement measures to prioritize the development of the technologies with the highest potential potential (as well economically). Current state-of-the-art techno-economic and environmental impact assessments of CCUS are limited due to following reasons: (i) heterogeneity in potential CCUS value chains, point sources, capture methods, transport, storage, and utilization, (ii) their dependence on specific information related to background systems of specific technologies, specific geographic conditions and time period, (iii) the current lack of accepted benchmarks, best practices and integrated sustainability assessments for CCUS and (iv) the social dimension that is not addressed in current assessments. This makes current state-of-the-art methods data-intensive and the obtained results very specific. Thus, there is a need for a standardized, harmonized, generic methodological framework to stimulate the design and deployment of economically feasible, environmentally desirable and socially acceptable CCUS value chains. This requires a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach involving expertise from different fields: chemical engineering, economics, sociology, quantitative sustainability assessments, process systems engineering and stakeholders along the value chain. The proposed postdoc challenge is as follows: "How can we create understanding about the levers that are needed to design and deploy economically feasible, environmentally desirable and socially acceptable carbon dioxide capture, transport, utilization and storage (CCUS) value chains ?" The following aspects are expected to be addressed : - Advances beyond the current state-of-the-art research on the sustainability impacts of CCUS. - Provide a harmonized, holistic, integrated prospective/ex-ante sustainability assessment framework on the full CCUS system and CCUS value chains, facilitating development of the most technologically, economically feasible, environmentally desirable and socially acceptable CCUS technologies and value chains. - Involvement of different stakeholders in the CCUS value chains - Reproducibility and honest benchmarking of CCUS technologies - Sound assessments to guide R&D in the most optimal direction and pinpoint those areas of technologies and systems that have the highest potential and where improvement is required.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Nimmegeers Philippe

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having an increasingly large impact on society and it is already used in several high stakes decision domains like finance, justice and healthcare. This also means that it is of high importance to make sure that the decisions of the AI system are aligned with ethical objectives. In our research, we will focus on two ethical aspects of fairness and link these with Explainable AI, which is the field of AI concerned with how well decisions can be understood by humans. The two aspects of fairness we will focus on are: 1) ensuring that the model does not discriminate against any sensitive group (for example women or a particular ethnic group) and 2) protecting the privacy: ensuring that the the personal data of data subjects will be kept safe and the subjects cannot be identified against their will. The main contribution of our research will be to develop new methodologies to improve these ethical issues when using Explainable AI. In the last phase, we will validate our findings and methodology through use cases in HR analytics (predicting suitable job candidates) and credit scoring (predicting default).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Goethals Sofie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research aims to critically assess the rationale and the different implementation possibilities of energy consumer centric concepts (CCC) by providing quantitative evidence (1) of costs and value considering all facets (economic, social, and environmental) from the perspective of all stakeholders. This PhD will aim to determine how different trade-offs between CCCs, and the viability of CCCs might evolve in the future within this transforming energy system (RO1). In addition (2), this PhD will focus on the development and implementation of a market design for CCCs. The market design consists of a value proposition of the different concepts (RO2), economic incentive mechanisms and a role model division of the stakeholders in the value chain (RO3). Particular attention will be given to a selection of concepts assessed in trade-off case studies. Due to differences in international markets and even the differences within Belgian markets and regulations, the scope will initially be set on Flanders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The new common agricultural policy highlights its commitment to orienting stakeholders in agriculture towards more environment friendly measures through its green payment for actions specifically in favor of the environment. This vision aligns with the commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the Paris Agreements. A study about greenhouse gas emissions by Pellerin et al. (2017) identified around ten mitigation practices, the implementation of which could be relevant in France and Belgium. Numerous articles study the policies encouraging the adoption of these practices (Antle et al, 2003, Dessart et al, 2019, Doole et al, 2019) or more broadly encouraging the reduction of emissions (De Cara et al, 2005). However, the implementation of these mitigation policies could impact the quality of ecosystem services and vice versa. For example, Bareille and Gohin (2020) show that a tax on pesticides increases nitrogen pollution and GHG emissions due to changes in land use on a global scale. To reduce these antagonisms between mitigation practices and practices protecting ecosystems, it is interesting to shed light upon the adoption of alternative systems rather than encourage the adoption of one category of practices or the other. This PhD thesis will therefore revolve around instruments of economic policies that allow the arbitration between environmental objectives. This work intends to employ the supply side economic model AROPAj which represents the economic behavior of European agricultural systems and uses microeconomic data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network to propose policies arbitrating between environmental objectives through the integration of modules modeling environment friendly practices.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Chiadmi Ines

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Social-ecological systems are linked systems of people and nature, emphasizing that humans must be seen as a part of, not apart from, nature. Currently, there exists no sound scientific basis that describes the complex interactions at the interface of the geological system component and the socio-economic system component. Decisions on subsurface utilization, changes in the subsurface, associated above-ground global and local environmental changes, energy production systems, energy consumption patterns, and waste disposal networks are activities that mediate between the geological and socio-economic elements of the broader socio-ecological system. To govern this system, it is important to create an understanding about how socio-economic and geological conditions influence the processes and patterns which define this system and the embedded interactions. The objective of this research project is to bring together the necessary elements for modelling the geological and socio-economic system to study interacting processes related to specific subsurface activities (deep geothermal, seasonal gas storage and high-radioactive waste disposal) in a relevant geological context, i.e. the Campine Basin. This will allow to consider how the subsurface reservoir under consideration can optimally be developed. This implies defining the concept of sustainable scale by dimensioning and timing activities so that current and future generations can equally benefit from the subsurface resources. Each of the activities lay in their own way a temporary or permanent claim on the subsurface, and equally differently contribute to current and future wellbeing. The research result is a prior geological-socio-economic model that will act as a stochastic framework and that makes the current understanding and uncertainties about above and below ground interactions explicit. Each following reservoir or socio-economic model analyzing subsurface development scenarios for the Campine Basin will draw directly from this framework and will be able to be mapped to it. First, current geological and socio-economic models of the Campine Basin will be reviewed and translated into a suited prior geological-socio-economic modelling framework. Then, the asymmetry of below and above ground interference effects related to these three activities will be identified and described in a real geological-economic context and it will be discussed how this leads to a nested and interactive reservoir model connected to a socio-economic decision framework. Starting from this informed conceptualized model, the different subsurface activities will be modelled in box-type reservoir and socio-economic models that will facilitate the setting of boundary conditions, as well as allow to combine models into one framework. This approach of nested modelling allows to integrate geological and socio-economic outputs and advance them to study the interferences of the different activities, and link this subsurface component to the socio-economic system component.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Bergmans Anne

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We all face a climate and energy challenge that cannot be solved with incremental innovations alone, but where radical innovations are also needed to make the transition to a low-carbon economy and society a reality. The MOONSHOT innovation program therefore provides means to realize technological breakthroughs by 2050 in order to contribute to the achievement of the Flemish climate objectives. Given the objective and timeline of the innovation program, it is crucial to use the resources in a targeted and efficient way. There is a need for a harmonized framework that allows projects proposed and implemented within the MOONSHOT innovation program to be evaluated on their sustainability impact. This framework should allow to estimate the environmental and economic impacts at low TRL and from the project application onwards, in order to adjust the projects and project proposals in time. Despite the availability of LCA, TEA and IA methods, there is no harmonized framework that can be directly applied to the MOONSHOT innovation program. Clear agreements on system boundaries, methodological choices and default values are necessary in order to evaluate the projects in an independent, objective, transparent and overarching manner. Thanks to the development of a new methodological framework, support can be offered for the allocation of (follow-up) projects and the allocation of budgets, but also for improved communication with external stakeholders, industry, and researchers. In addition, it allows technology developers to be supported from a low TRL onwards in setting research goals, and to test these during development and adjust them where necessary. In addition to evaluating 'strong' KPIs where more attention is paid to environmental aspects such as energy consumption and CO2 emissions, sufficient attention must also be paid to the technical and economic feasibility of future developments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having an increasingly large impact on society and is already used in several high stakes decision domains as finance, justice and healthcare. This also means that it is of high importance to ensure that the decisions of the AI system are aligned with ethical objectives. In my research, I will focus on the ethical areas of transparency, fairness and privacy. Transparency relates to how well the AI model and its predictions can be understood by individuals. Fairness of an AI model deals with not discriminating against any sensitive group (for example women or a particular ethnic group), while privacy requires respect for personal data. I will link these ethical ects with the field of Explainable AI, Counterfactual Explanations in particular, and several validation domains in business, such as tax fraud, HR analytics and credit scoring. The main contribution of my research will be to develop new methodologies to improve and validate these ethical issues when using Explainable AI.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Goethals Sofie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general objective of the study is to strengthen the knowledge base for policy dialogue and financing decisions for cashew in Benin, by analyzing the institutional context of the different components of the cashew value chain. To do this, the research team will proceed to the identification of the flows and of the agents at work in the existing productive system, analysis of the locations for decisions, and collaboration among agents with specific attention on governance and based on DFID institutional methodology tool.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project support the Federal Government of Belgium with economic aspects, policy measures, policy instruments and policy options regarding biodiversity. In this contest, the economic valuation of ecosystem services can be of importance.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Cools Jan
• Co-promoter: Staes Jan
• Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Assessment of the existing documents that quantify the expected costs and effects of the liveability projects near the Antwerp Ringroad. Presentation of a structured overview of the information available. Stakeholder analysis to assess the expectation of a possible future working group on financing. Implementation plan of a working group on financing.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: Coppens Tom

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Climate change is impacting agriculture, making it more difficult to grow crops and raise animals. Adaptation is necessary to maintain our agricultural production. To correctly estimate the economic impact of climate change on agriculture, adaptation of farmers should be considered. This is done by the Ricardian method, measuring long run impacts from climate change and capturing the adaptation that farmers have already demonstrated they can do. To support decision making by policy makers and farmers, it is needed to open the black box of adaptation and explicitly model the adaptation choices of farmers. Therefore, this project will simultaneously estimate choices (e.g. farm type, crop type, irrigation or rainfed) and income, conditional on the explicit adaptation choices. Next, a new climate-change-adaptation valuation approach will be developed by including future adaptation choices. The current Ricardian approach only takes existing adaptation options into account (revealed by 'real' farm data). Future adaptation options can be captured by providing hypothetical market scenarios to farmers (and as such measure their stated preferences). The joint estimation of existing and future adaptation options will provide the first reliable measure of the economic benefit of climate-change adaptation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Fabri Charlotte

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

As a consequence of digitalization, more aspects of people's lives are being captured. Examples include visiting particular physical locations or webpages, liking Facebook pages, etc. This behavioral data holds significant predictive power. For example, what you like on Facebook can be predictive for your IQ, product interest, and even creditworthiness. Deep learning has been shown to outperform other prediction techniques in making accurate predictions using behavioral data. Combining behavioral data and deep learning unfortunately results in incomprehensible black box predictions. Three reasons why: (1) behavioral data is very high-dimensional (up to millions of features), (2) the data is sparse, so every feature is only of relevance for a few data instances, and (3) the deep learning model is complex and non-linear. Consequently, although the combination of deep learning and behavioral data is so predictive, it is very difficult to understand why the model is making certain predictions, leading to skepticism to use it in practice. The main contribution of this research, financed by FWO, is to design new algorithms that explain the complex deep learning prediction models. This comprehensibility issue is a research area that has gained attention in the data mining community because of the implications it has on model deployment and transparency towards users. We will validate our findings in several applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Ramon Yanou

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We live in a world where the impacts of climate change become more recognizable every year. Cities are the most vulnerable areas to these impacts while harboring 80% of all people in Europe. Through the high rate of urbanization, cities get denser and wider, which has the opposite effect on green space and nature. Nevertheless, humans depend for their survival on the services nature provides us. Paradoxically, the areas where 80% of us live, produce close to zero of these ecosystem services. In a response to climate change, human health needs and diminishing biodiversity, the concept of urban green infrastructure was introduced. Investing in permeable surfaces, green roofs, public parks, green walls, urban forests, green alleys and streets, community gardens, urban wetlands, etc. cities will lead to the necessary resilience, improved human wellbeing and at the same time enhanced biodiversity. Nevertheless, we see that cities (small cities in particular) are not inclined to invest in such projects, unless provided subsidies. Since the actual economic value and precise environmental benefit of green infrastructure is not measured, 'grey' infrastructure projects with a clear return-on-investment are still preferred. To overcome this barrier to green infrastructure implementation, we will generate an integrated framework that supports cities to city-fund such investments, without subsidies. Comprising clear multidisciplinary valuation methods, financing schemes and policy advice.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Cools Jan
• Fellow: Van Oijstaeijen Wito

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

3D-audio makes it appear as if sounds come from outside of your head, even better the sounds can come from everywhere: from above or below, from the front of the back. 3D-audio really immerses you into a soundscape: you become part of it, thereby improving the experience significantly. However, for the last couple of years the audio-visual sector has been struggling with a specific problem that stands in the way of the broad application of 3D-audio delivered through headphones: the sound processing involved has to be personalized. Recently, we developed at the UA a low-cost method to measure the Head-Related Transfer Function (HRTF) that allows such personalization. The main goal of this project is to turn the lab-version of this HRTF measurement method into a more robust and user-friendly method that can be applied outside the laboratory and for which we can prove the effectivity/usefulness to third parties using custom-built demonstrator applications. This will allow us to fulfill the prerequisites for commercializing our HRTF measurement technology through a spin-off.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Partoens Bart
• Fellow: Reijniers Jonas

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Assessing societal impacts is a challenging task. Social conditions vastly differ throughout the world and depending on the involved stakeholders, distinct emphasis is set. In the context of enhanced landfill mining (ELFM), i.e. resource recovery from landfills through the use of innovative technology, some of the major stakeholders involved include landfill owners, governmental institutions, technology providers, local communities as well as energy and material companies. While environmental and private economic factors in the field of ELFM have gotten some scientific attention, societal impacts have generally not been assessed. To fill this research gap, we propose an anticipatory approach, integrating stakeholder values and including uncertainty through the use of prospective modelling tools and multiple social perspectives. To identify the different perspectives taken on ELFM and elicit specific stakeholder needs, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The results show that the perspectives lead to different and sometimes contradicting implications for ELFM implementation. Five stakeholder archetypes for ELFM have been developed and 23 stakeholder needs identified. In a consequential step, the derived societal impacts will be quantified through prospective modelling. The basis for this step is provided societal life cycle costing (sLCC) and social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) methods and will be adapted to fit the processes of ELFM. To accomplish the PhD research four publications are planned, of which two have been submitted to peer reviewed journals. The fourth year of the PhD research will comprise the integration of societal, economic and environmental assessment models into a holistic approach. This is planned in close cooperation with two other PhD researchers from UAntwerp and KU Leuven. The developed model will be tested on the Remo landfill, located in Houthalen-Helchteren, in Flanders, Belgium.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Einhäupl Paul

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Support for the coordination of a 2-stage Horizon 2020 proposal with the topic 'Sustainable Intensification in Africa (SFS-35-2019-2020)': Upscaling SUStainable Intensification for small-scale farm systems in Southern Africa (SUSI).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Understanding the workings of human sound localization, and in particular which acoustic cues we use to perceive our acoustic environment in three dimensions (3D), is not only of fundamental interest, but has become increasingly relevant in the light of nowadays advance of 3D audio displays through headphones. In the past, most research has focused on the role of static cues , i.e. when the head and source are stationary, yet it is known that localization is greatly improved if listeners are allowed to move their head during stimulus presentation. In this project, we investigate the role of dynamic cues provided by small movements of the head or source, within an information- theoretic framework. We use a proven ideal-observer model for static human sound localization and extend it to account for the dynamic acoustic cues involved. First, we study what head movements carry the most information and how this depends on the location of the source. Next, we consider the mirror situation and investigate how much information can be conveyed through small movements of the source. Finally, we study the effects on sound localization when actual head movements are not taken into account correctly, which is the case if a 3D audio display is provided through ordinary headphones. The predictions from the theoretical analysis are validated with psycho-acoustic experiments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Partoens Bart

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Over the years, design models for production plants were mainly based on optimising capital and operational costs. Nowadays, responsive delivery lead times and reliable delivery are state-of-theart and equally important strategic management objectives. The aim of this project is to incorporate the supply chain performance attributes "responsiveness" and "reliability" into the mathematical optimisation models for strategic design of chemical batch production plants. At strategic level, the design of such batch plants defines the configuration (number and size of batch equipment), the size of the production batches for the different products and the production planning policy to be used. Depending on the production environment (Make-To-Order or Make-To-Stock), mode of operation (cyclic or non-cyclic) and design options (parallel equipment, dedicated and temporary storage tanks, or parallel production lines), different models will be defined. Small design problems will be optimised with exact mathematical programming techniques. For real size problems, efficient metaheuristics will be developped. Finally, the outcome of the different models will be used to align the appropriateness of strategic choices in plant design with specific business circumstances.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornelissens Trijntje
• Co-promoter: Springael Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Frustration is a common emotion among regular bus users, as bus transport tends to be slow, inefficient, and inflexible. Typically, a bus service (i.e., a set of bus routes and timetables) remains the same throughout the day, even when the demand for bus transport varies considerably over time. The main reason for this inflexibility was that, until very recently, public bus operators had no way of knowing the demand for transportation at any given moment, and were therefore forced to use fixed bus schedules. This lack of knowledge is, however, likely to change with the advent of the "smart city". In the near future, sensors, mobile devices, and other smart city technology will empower public transport operators to roll out flexible bus services that respond to the actual demand for transportation, the current traffic conditions, etc. Also the on-line communication between potential passengers and bus operators, in both directions, will work smoothly. This increases the number of opportunities to improve and tailor the route, stops or timetable of a bus line, also during operations. The aim of this project is to develop the optimization models and algorithms to fully exploit these opportunities and to evaluate the added value of flexible services over conventional fixed-line fixedtimetable services. The goal is to obtain a flexible and demand oriented public transport system which is more efficient from an operator cost perspective and sustainable from a societal perspective.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

PlasMaCatDESIGN aims to develop design rules for (catalytically activated) packing materials to enhance plasma-activated gas phase conversion reactions to basic chemicals. By understanding the material - properties – activity correlation we target enhanced conversion, selectivity and energy efficiency of plasma driven chemical production for two selected industrially and environmentally relevant model reactions in which plasma catalysis can have specific advantages: selective CO2 conversion towards C1-C5 (oxygenated) hydrocarbons and inorganic amine synthesis (nitrogen fixation).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Purpose of this research project is to investgate the diferent characteristcs and needs of the vessel trafc towards the port of Antwerp. Data analysis will permit us to predict beter the intensity of the trafic and to have beter insight into the capacity needed to minimize the delays of the nautcal services at peak moments. We want to create a beter efcient system for each needed service by a nautcal actor. This will have its efect on the investment policies. The optmalisaton of the efciency and the capacity is dependable of the service level that one want to deliver to the trafc and are important strategical questons for the management of the nautcal actors. So by further data analysis one want to have a beter view on the trafc prognosis so to have a beter monitoring of the performance of the nautcal chain for example to investgate the delays of vessel travel tme because of the shortage of pilots at peak moments, to investgate the lock-capacity of the Antwerp Harbor so to avoid delays at peak moments (for example at end of work shifs of harbor workers), and to investgate the capacity of the tug ships inside the harbor of Antwerp

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The operational planning of pickup and drop-off activities in warehouses is currently done either manually, or using simple heuristics. Yet, mathematically, routing forklifts or AGVs in a warehouse is partly similar to routing vehicles on the road. In stark contrast to the absence of research on planning of vehicles in a warehouse, research on vehicle routing has yielded a rich literature describing a wide range of problem variants and advanced algorithms to solve them. The innovation of this project lies in the fact that it is one of the very first attempts to exploit the similarities between both research domains in order to improve the state of the art in the operational planning of warehouse operations. We focus on a specific vehicle routing problem (the full-truckload pickup and delivery problem) that has never before been studied in a warehouse context, take the best algorithms from the literature and adapt those algorithms to the specific requirements and constraints of AGV routing in a warehouse. We are the first to take such an approach. The resulting problem, that we have called the transport request scheduling problem (TRSP), along with its variants, will help warehouse managers and software developers of warehouse management systems in successfully planning their AGV operations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornelissens Trijntje
• Co-promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Gamez Alban Harol Mauricio

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

As a consequence of digitalization, more aspects of people's lives are being captured. Examples include visiting particular physical locations or webpages, liking Facebook pages, etc. This behavioral data holds significant predictive power. For example, what you like on Facebook can be predictive for your IQ, product interest, and even creditworthiness. Deep learning has been shown to outperform other prediction techniques in making accurate predictions using behavioral data. Combining behavioral data and deep learning unfortunately results in incomprehensible black box predictions. Three reasons why: (1) behavioral data is very high-dimensional (up to millions of features), (2) the data is sparse, so every feature is only of relevance for a few data instances, and (3) the deep learning model is complex and non-linear. Consequently, although the combination of deep learning and behavioral data is so predictive, it is very difficult to understand why the model is making certain predictions, leading to skepticism to use it in practice. The main contribution of this research proposal is to design new algorithms that explain the complex deep learning prediction models. This comprehensibility issue is a research area that has gained attention in the data mining community because of the implications it has on model deployment and transparency towards users. We will validate our findings in several applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Ramon Yanou

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The current fight against fiscal fraud is confronted with a number of significant challenges, as fraudsters adopt ever growing complex structures and operate in an organized fashion. In this project we will investigate how the shareholder network structures change over time in legitimate versus fraudulent cases. To do so, we will apply data mining techniques on a unique dataset that we have obtained from a European tax administration, with data of company ownership networks from 2006 till today.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Co-promoter: Peeters Bruno

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Decision-makers in cities and town lack tools to justify the use of 'city-finance' to fund green infrastructure climate investments for their town or city. In this research, we will co-design a new business model for local authorities, that supports senior managers and finance officers in approving and justifying the use of 'city-finance' to fund green infrastructure climate investments. This approach will be co-designed with the city partners whilst delivering pilot studies. This will incorporate the approval processes, financial and legal systems of local authorities that are used to 'sign-off' on investments. The work will explore how a local authority can use the market and non-market values, cash and non-cash benefits that are attributable to green infrastructure, into an economic case to justify the investment in urban green infrastructure. The project demonstrates how investments in urban green can result in a net positive gain to 'city- finance' or a local authority's triple bottom line (economic, social and ecological values). This process will help identify the cash flow analysis of green infrastructure climate investments and allow the business model to be developed, tested and validated directly with input from the end-user - the local authorities

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Samson Roeland

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Our previous research resulted in a low-cost and user-friendly do-it-yourself method that allows a user to measure their Head Related Transfer Function (HRTF) at home. While it is recognized that personalized 3D audio can add significant value to VR applications in a Business to Business environment, e.g. VR safety training, it appears that in addition to an efficient way of personalizing 3D audio, i.e. an HRTF measurement, two more elements are missing. First, the user having to assemble him/herself the measurement system from a number of commercially available components is perceived as a major obstacle. Second, the absence of standard software allowing effective use of personalized 3D audio acts as a significant impediment to its exploitation in applications. In this project we propose to remove these two obstacles to the use of personalized 3D audio in such Business to Business applications. The first obstacle will be addressed by developing a hardware module capable of capturing and transmitting both head movements and binaural microphone signals to a smartphone/laptop. In addition, we will extend Unity, a development platform widely used in the VR and game world, with a 3D audio module. This software module will allow application-developers to include personalized 3D audio in a standardized way in their products. Users of 2 these products can then upload their measured HRTF and experience the advantages of personalized 3D audio.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Partoens Bart
• Co-promoter: Steckel Jan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this research, parameters are identified for making the distinction between single chemical plants and chemical plants situated in industrial parks: what is the difference with respect to safety and security and how can this difference be influenced? The bow-tie technique is used to this end.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Reniers Genserik

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Recently, the Flemish weekly magazine Knack published a scathing article entitled "Pamphlet of an angry bus traveler: The 10 pests of De Lijn", in which it decried (among other things) the inefficiency of public bus transport. One of the main reasons for this inefficiency: buses run along fixed routes, following fixed time schedules, both of which are defined not knowing where (potential) passengers are, where they want to go, and when they would like to arrive. As a result, some buses run empty, whereas others are jam-packed with frustrated passengers. The ubiquity of mobile devices would, for the first time in human history, allow for a large-scale shift to on-demand public transport in which buses drive along routes completely determined by requests for transportation. In such a system, when a passenger wants to move from one place to another she indicates her departure and arrival locations, as well as a preferred time of arrival. Planning all of these transportation requests, however, is a daunting task, for which adequate models and algorithms have not yet been developed. This project focuses on the optimization problem that arises when bus routes in an urban environment are determined entirely based on transportation requests issued by potential passengers. We call this novel problem the On-Demand Bus Routing Problem (ODBRP) and will develop efficient algorithms for its different variants.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Melis Lissa

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Current real options models only evaluate the impact of demand uncertainty on the timing of public transport investments. This project considers an investor in public transport infrastructure who maximizes social welfare and an investor in public transport service that maximizes profit. By the development of a sequential real option game, this project will evaluate how demand uncertainty affects the optimal capacity level and optimal timing of both investments and how the investment in public transport infrastructure influences the investment in public transport services. To make relevant decisions for the public transport sector, existing real option game models need to be adapted: the investment is considered as a determinant of public transport demand. The integration of such feedback relation is novel and unconventional in the field of the real options theory. Furthermore, also optimal policy measures to induce a welfare maximizing behavior of the transport service provider will be evaluated. This research project will not only advance the current state-ofthe- art, it also contributes to ongoing discussions on the liberalization of the public transport sector. By setting up a collaboration between the University of Antwerp, Tilburg University, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and Hasselt University, we have an outstanding scientific team that has proven to produce original research in the field of transport economics and the real options theory.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Promoter: De Borger Bruno
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine
• Co-promoter: De Borger Bruno
• Co-promoter: Kort Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Local public transport, defined as the collective scheduled transport of passengers, is one of the backbones of urban mobility within the EU. The traditional line-based bus system used in virtually every city worldwide, however, is inherently inefficient and lacks flexibility. Even though many obstacles still need to be overcome, the ubiquity of mobile devices would for the first time in human history allow for a large-scale shift to on-demand public transport. However: the operational and tactical foundations that are required to implement an on-demand transportation system are still lacking. Even though a large majority of people now has the technological means to determine exactly where they are and transmit exactly where they want to go, the tools to plan all of these transportation requests have not been developed. Such a system would demand carrying out optimization on a scale never seen before, and will require not only modeling all the intricacies of an on-demand scheduling of passengers, but to develop new optimization algorithms and software components that can coordinate such a massive fleet of vehicles and vast number of passengers. The main objective of this project is to develop the Operations Research foundations that will allow to design and deploy a fully on-demand public transportation system. The outcome of this project will provide an optimization framework for the scheduling of passengers and buses, a simulation environment to evaluate the impact of several design/operational decisions on the performance of the transportation system, and a set of tactical guidelines that will assist the progressive transition to an on-demand operation. Achieving these goals will position the University of Antwerp as one of the first research centers to tackle this paramount challenge.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The BioWood project aims at boosting the economic and environmental performance of the Flemish bio- economy by providing the knowledge base to create a novel wood-based value chain for the chemical and agro-industries. This value chain will be based on inventive conversion technologies, starting from local, inexpensive and available woody biomass resources and targeting highly valuable agro-industrial applications. The main objectives are: (i) detailed inventory of currently available woody biomass feedstock from forests, landscapes, imports and waste flows in Flanders, and determination of their current value to develop a a spatio- temporal optimisation tool for the best allocation of woody biomass and best location of a new biofactory in Flanders using sustainability and cost efficiency criteria; (ii) Design of a flexible refinery process for complex and variable lignocellulose feeds to synthesise novel organic products for agro-industrial applications; (iii) Proof-of-concept of novel products for agro-industrial applications with a performance at least equalling the performance of current agro-industrial products; (iv) techno-economic and real options analysis of the entire value chain of a bio-based production unit, from woody biomass feedstock to agro-industrial products by analysis of uncertainties and flexibility options.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to study the effect of inventory policy and its interactions with vehicle routing in horizontal collaborations of different companies. This will be done through a series of rigorously designed experiments, using statistical design of experiments methodology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Goos Peter
• Fellow: Palhazi Cuervo Daniel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Few car owners regularly think of the environmental impact of the refrigerant used in the air conditioning systems of their vehicles. However, the cooling agents most commonly used in these systems, have in the past decades been recognised to be potent greenhouse gases, and therefore direct contributors to climate change. Currently driven by regulation, technological development for climate-friendly cooling agents is occurring rapidly, but we are now seeing an industry wide shift to a synthetic solution in place of a natural alternative. Recent measurements show that the former could pose a threat to ecosystems; potentially toxic for plants, animals and algae. A natural and safe solution exists - but is somewhat more expensive and technically demanding. In this highly uncertain regulatory and scientific environment, the project hypothesises that short-term fixes are being relied upon, in place of long-term economically and environmentally viable options. Research into the dynamics at play is crucial for the prospect of sustainable business to develop, as the project will identify the (potential) impact and future role of different stakeholders on the shaping of the market - from the private sector, to consumers, science and the state, through both qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis. Based on a conceptual framework, we study how consumers can drive technological change (using discrete choice experiments) and how the supply of technologies available can be clarified (using techno-economic analysis). The state of the art perspective will have significant implications for policymakers and businesses shaping the energy agenda and instigating technological innovation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Bjornavold Amalie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Dealing with the impact of climate change on agriculture is complex as it involves non-market evaluation, uncertainty, baseline definition and interlinkages with sustainability. First, there is a clear need for original and innovative valuation studies of climate change on farm level. In current climate change impact models, adaptation is lacking, incomplete or incorrect. Human preferences and behavior are barely considered as major drivers to estimate the economic impact of climate change and climate change adaptation. The costs of autonomous adaptation and the residual impacts lead to complications when valuing adaptation options. Second, the sustainability impact of potential climate change adaptation options is yet unknown, while many adaptation options result in external costs and benefits, which influence the sustainability performance of farms. Autonomous adaptation responses should therefore be reconciled with desirable public good outcomes, in order to obtain sustainable adaptive farms. The general objective of this research project is to assess the sustainability performance of climate change adaptation options on farm level.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project focuses on the impact of supply chain strategy on the design of multi-product chemical batch plants. Strategic design covers equipment choice, number and size, combined with tactical guidelines for the operational planning . Although highly interwoven, past research barely integrates plant design with supply chain strategies. The aim of this research is to develop mathematical models and a heuristic solution methods for this multi-objective optimization problem and to translate the results into comprehensive decision support guidelines for industry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornelissens Trijntje
• Co-promoter: Springael Johan
• Fellow: Verbiest Floor

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Fraud detection using data mining in a government (fiscal) setting. This project is a collaboration between the University of Antwerp (Antwerp Tax Academy) and the Financial Administration of the Belgian government.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Co-promoter: Peeters Bruno

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The socioeconomic project is needed to understand and to find scientific solutions to the food security, environment management and livelihood problems in NWE. The project will also contribute in promoting environmental issues including socioeconomic impact of dams, land deals, animal feeding, geotourism and internal migrations. The project will facilitate the achievements of CRGE goals through PhD and masters training. The project will also develop the research capacity of involved departments of BDU.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The policy research centre "sustainable materials management in a circular economy" (SuMMa+ as working title) will do policy research to monitor, stimulate and contextualise the progress of the Flemish region towards a circular economy (CE). Indeed, as Flanders wants to lay a solid foundation for a circular economy by 2020, with minimal use of materials, energy and space and minimizing the impact on the environment, 3 major policy-related questions need to be answered, and are at the core of the research of SuMMa+: - How can we measure the progress of our economy towards a circular economy? - What are the economic effects associated with the introduction of a circular economy, and how are these effects affected by policy measures? - Which new technological, economic and societal trends have an impact on the evolution towards a circular economy, and how large is this impact? We could translate this questions in the 3 research directions: CE monitoring, CE economic stimulating, CE contextualising in the societal transitions. The general objectives of the policy research centre therefore are: o To create and gain more in-depth scientific insights in circular economy policies,more specifically on (i)How to measure progress towards circular economy(CE), (ii) How to assess the economic effects of circular economy and of policy measures to stimulate circular economy, (iii) What are the societal implications of CE and vice versa,how will societal transitions affect progress to CE o To implement these insights and the associated methodologies on a variety of cases o To translate these scientific insights and results into clear policy support and recommendations and to transfer the underlying knowledge to policy makers, stakeholders and the broader public o To build a basis for further policy research and evaluations, by setting up a proper database for relevant data necessary for a Circular Economy Index, and by developing sound methodologies for further investigations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Economic values are usually revealed in the market place. However, no such mechanism exists to reveal people's relative values for goods and services that are currently not being bought and sold in the marketplace. Still, scientists would like to know the monetary value people attribute to them. We want to be able to carry out cost-benefit analysis to determine the welfare effects of technological innovations or public policy, to forecast new product success, and to understand the degree to which behavior is consistent with preferences and beliefs. Choice experiments (CEs) are arguably the most popular method currently used in preference and willingness to pay (WTP) elicitation studies, both in hypothetical and non-hypothetical settings. Originally, the method was developed for marketing and transport studies, but in the last two decennia, it has spread to environmental and resource economics, agricultural and food economics, and health economics. The ever growing body of literature on CEs emphasizes the increasing role they are playing. In this elicitation method, respondents are generally asked to make choices between multiple alternatives, also called profiles, which are described by a number of attributes with different levels. Consequently, through nonlinear regression models, generally based on random utility theory (RUT), the utility each attribute (level) contributes to the good or service under study can be quantified and translated into (marginal) willingness to pay. To a large extent, the design of the CE drives the precision and the validity of the conclusions and it is therefore considered to be a key aspect of the planning of a CE. Designing a CE involves selecting the profiles to be used in the experiment The current state of the art is the Bayesian optimal design method. However, the design and analysis methods for CEs are constantly improving, which goes along with the improvement of the discrete choice models and the increasing number of applications in different fields. Research on empirical and methodological advances in CEs faces the following challenges. First, RUT assumes the respondent to act in a fully compensatory manner based on stable preferences. This has been found to be a demanding assumption. Hence, it is up to empirical research to determine what causes these assumptions to be violated and how sensitive the obtained estimates are to them. Second, the debate concerning what drives (out) hypothetical bias, being the difference between what people say they are willing to pay in a hypothetical survey question and what they will actually pay in a non-hypothetical experiment when money is really on the line or in real-life situations, has not been closed. Third, most CEs are hitherto single-site and/or single-case studies. By consequence, spatial and socio-cultural effects are often ignored, which impedes generalization. Despite the vast amount of studies, findings often remain context-specific and cross-case comparisons are limited. Researchers from various applied economic disciplines continuously keep improving the way of designing, collecting and analyzing choice data in search of behavioral insights as well as efficient policy development. While some informal connections between several of the participating groups are already in place, a more formal setup would provide a driving force for more rapid knowledge dissemination and state of the art development of expertise. Therefore, it is important for Flanders to create a united and multi-disciplinary platform to keep up to date with the latest developments on CEs and to gather sufficient critical mass to be able to compete with other consortia for publications and project funding. Moreover, with this scientific research network, we aim to provide a platform for postdoctoral researchers to exchange knowledge and to more easily and intensively collaborate intra- and internationally.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Co-promoter: Kessels Roselinde

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Considering the increasing number of large dams worldwide as well as the lack of integrated studies on hydrology, agricultural systems and socio-economic effects in the downstream alluvial plains, research is required to fill this gap in a holistic framework. Ethiopia is an excellent case, since the country is engaged in an ambitious dam building plan. This project proposal exploits our longstanding expertise and network in the country and is elaborated in the framework of sustainability, focusing on both biophysical and socio-economic post-dam impacts. We will start assessing and mapping the environmental setting of the alluvial plains downstream of selected large dams, and use this as an input for the analysis of hydro(geomorpho)logy. These findings will be combined with measurements of channel incision to study the related water table fluctuations. In parallel to these activities by the physical geographers, the environmental economists will work on the assessment of agrarian changes in relation to migrations and land tenure changes. Combining the environmental knowledge and the understanding of agrarian changes, we will develop a model for post-dam hydrology and agricultural systems. In addition, the socio-economic impacts of dam building will be assessed and modelled. In the end, the agro-hydro and socio-economic models will be integrated into a holistic model allowing sustainability assessments of agricultural systems downstream of large dams in developing countries.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Optimization problems abound in a wide variety of business environments, ranging from logistics and supply chain management, to the financial sector and health care. Companies in these areas support many of their decisions on powerful optimization methods. By doing so, they are able to become not only more profitable and competitive, but also more environmentally friendly. Metaheuristics are considered to be the dominant approach to tackle most optimization problems found in practice. However, they completely lack a scientifically sound methodology to analyze the optimization they carry out. All existing methodologies are based on the flawed principle of an algorithmic race: metaheuristics are evaluated at a single and arbitrary point in time only. Optimization is, however, not a race but a complex process that deserves a thorough assessment during its entire execution. It turns out that an analysis with these considerations has been carried out for over 40 years in clinical research. This approach, called longitudinal analysis, is commonly used to evaluate trials for determining the effectiveness of new treatments (in which several individuals are examined multiple times). The main goal of this proposal is to develop a sound methodology, based on the rigorous approach of longitudinal analysis, to evaluate (meta)heuristics. The methodology will be implemented as an open source software package, to allow researchers to apply it in a straightforward and userfriendly way.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general objective of the EVAMAB-project is to assess the economic value of ecosystem services and, more specifically, to test and adapt rapid assessment tools, and formulate pertinent stakeholder engagement and policy advice for biosphere reserve managers and decision-makers. The project will be implemented in four African biosphere reserves: Pendjari in Benin, Lake Tana in Ethiopia, Mount Elgon in Uganda and Lake Manyara in Tanzania. This project is financed within the framework of a Memorandum of Understanding between BELSPO and UNESCO to support implementation of the MAB Programme in Africa, including research activities in biosphere reserves

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main objective of this PhD is to develop and apply a comprehensive set of indicators to assess the sustainability of green chemicals, integrating economic, social and environmental issues. Moreover, the methodology will contribute to the evolution from existing sustainability framework for biofuels and bioenergy to sustainability frameworks encompassing green chemicals, as well.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Van Schoubroeck Sophie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Previous research has shown that there is tremendous predictive value in fine-grained behavioral data (such as browsing, location or payment data) to make predictions about consumer behavior. This project focuses on the question: if data is used from a large set of players in a coalition, what is the value of the data of each of the data providers?

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Praet Stiene

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Research regarding cross-border collaboration and information excahnge between Belgium and the Netherlands with respect to nuclear installations. The research concerns an advising role for the study which is being conducted by the OVV.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Reniers Genserik

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Europe has somewhere between 150,000 and 500,000 landfill sites, with an estimated 90% of them being "non-sanitary" landfills, predating the EU Landfill Directive of 1999. These older landfills tend to be filled with municipal solid waste and often lack any environmental protection technology. In order to avoid future environmental and health problems, many of these landfills will soon require expensive remediation measures. This situation might appear bleak, but it does present us with an exciting opportunity for a combined resource-recovery and remediation strategy, which will drastically reduce future remediation costs, reclaim valuable land, while at the same time unlocking valuable resources. However, the widespread adoption of Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM) in the EU, as envisaged by NEW-MINE, urgently requires skilled scientists, engineers, economists and policy makers who can develop cost-effective, environmentally friendly ELFM practices and regulatory frameworks. All this demands a European commitment to concerted, inter- and transdisciplinary research and innovation. NEW-MINE trains 15 early-stage researchers (ESRs) in all aspects of landfill mining, in terms of both technological innovation and multi-criteria assessments. The technological innovation follows a value-chain approach, from advanced landfill exploration, mechanical processing, plasma/solar/hybrid thermochemical conversion and upcycling, while the multi-criteria assessment methods allow to compare combined resource-recovery/remediation ELFM methods with the "Do-Nothing", "Classic remediation" and "Classic landfill mining with (co-)incineration" scenarios. By training the ESRs in scientific, technical and soft skills, they become highly sought-after scientists and engineers for the rapidly emerging landfill-mining and broader raw-materials industries of Europe.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Low carbon energy and energy efficiency is essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The use of decentralised (low-carbon) energy systems, with greater participation of consumers in demand management, is a necessary component of the future energy mix. The extent of consumer adoption of Demand Respons (DR) depends primarily on the availability of suitable technologies, the levels and relevance of information, tariff design and the impacts of all these on their expenditure budgets. In this research, the exploration would be on the design of mechanisms that would maximise the demand response of urban residential and commercial consumers to economic incentives, so as to ensure the same reliability and confidence in renewable energy-dominant grids as compared to the conventional grids.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Srivastava Aman

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we develop a new method for a person to individualize his/her head-related transfer function, a prerequisite for creating a realistic 3D audio environment through headphones. The method makes use of a smartphone and a few extra low-cost items, and can be carried out at home, by the user herself. The lack of experimental control is compensated for by complex post-processing of the measurement data. The method aims at opening up 3D audio technology for the masses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Partoens Bart

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Economic support and related tasks in the context of the investigation of VITO (Flemish Institute for Technological Research) on the inventory and analysis of available biomass in Antwerp for sustainable energy production

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project deals with three important issues in discrete choice experiments (DCEs) which are widely used to study preferences for attributes of competing products or services in various areas of economics. To maximize the information content of the data from DCEs, it is crucial to design the experiments optimally. In our search so far, we have focused on improving the statistical quality of DCEs. However, the statistical quality is not the only aspect to consider. The response quality of a DCE is at least as important and depends on whether respondents can answer the choice questions well, that is, whether the choice questions are not too complex. Also, the framing or the labelling of the attributes and attribute levels plays a key role. Positive frames generally stimulate risk-averse responding as opposed to negative frames. Accounting for each of these two difficulties in the design and analysis of DCEs each makes up a part of this project. The designs we aim to construct will score well on overall quality, which includes both statistical quality and response quality. A final part of the project is devoted to post-hoc individual-level discrete choice modelling in which we show how to use individual preferences for market segmentation and the construction of indifference maps.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Co-promoter: Erreygers Guido
• Fellow: Kessels Roselinde

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project focuses on the impact of supply chain strategy on the tactical design of multiproduct chemical batch plants. Tactical design covers plant configuration as well as equipment choice, number, size, as layout of the pipeline network. Although highly interwoven, past research barely integrates plant design and supply chain or production strategies. The aim of this research is to gradually develop a mathematical model and a heuristic solution method for this multi-objective plant design optimisation problem and to translate the results into comprehensive industrial decision support guidelines.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornelissens Trijntje
• Co-promoter: Springael Johan
• Fellow: Verbiest Floor

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of this research is to develop vehicle routing algorithms for collaborative vehicle routing problems that can support logistics decision-making in horizontal coalitions of distribution companies. The algorithms will enable these coalitions to plan their joint operational "milk-run" distribution, but will also allow them to answer related tactical questions with respect to the contribution to the coalition gain of the (potential) partners in the coalition.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Defryn Christof

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

It is the purpose of this research project to come up with new, original and groundbreaking approaches for credit risk modeling through innovations in input data to model different aspects of credit risk. This research project will focus on the potential of social network and textual input data, and consists of four research objectives.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Tobback Ellen

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Actualizing of methods and data to complete the envrionmental indicators for the state of the environment report of Flanders. The indicators are dealing with the energy sector. Publication on the website version of MIRA is planned.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

HERON aims at facilitating policy makers of multi-level governance in EU, to develop and monitor energy efficiency policies in building and transport sectors, through forward-looking socio-economic research in seven EU and one candidate countries.The objectives are: i. the impact of socio-economic and institutional factors on implementing energy efficiency policies and measures, ii. the development of energy-efficient pathways to the horizon 2030 and beyond taking into account the socio-economic drivers and the updated energy efficiency measures, iii. the contribution to improving energy modeling by incorporating social, educational and cultural factors so as to reflect the end-user behavior, iv. the establishment of communication channels between researchers, decision makers of different governance levels and social and market stakeholders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In recent years, research has shown that energy savings resulting from energy efficiency improvements have wider benefits for the economy and society such as increases in employment, GDP, energy security, positive impacts on health, ecosystems and crops or resource consumption. In order to develop more cost-effective energy efficiency policies and optimised long-term strategies in the EU, these multiple benefits have to be accounted for more comprehensively in the future. Although this field of research is growing, the findings are disperse and mostly have important gaps regarding geographic, sectorial or technical measure coverage and findings vary largely. This makes a consideration of multiple benefits in policy making and policy evaluation difficult today. The project addresses these issues and aims at closing the identified gaps by five central research innovations: 1) data gathering on energy savings and technology costs per EU country for the most relevant 20 to 30 energy efficiency measures in the residential, commercial, industrial and transport sectors, 2) developing adequate methodologies for benefit quantification, monetisation and aggregation, 3) quantifying the most important multiple benefits and where adequate, monetising, 4) developing an openly available calculation tool that greatly simplifies the evaluation of co-impacts for specific energy efficiency measures to enable decision-making and 5) developing a simple online visualisation tool for customisable graphical analysis and assessment of multiple benefits and data exportation. Project outcomes can thus directly be used by stakeholders and will help to define cost-effective policies and support policy-makers and evaluators in the development and monitoring of energy efficiency strategies and policies in the future.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective of the project is to consolidate the computation procedure for the index and to validate the preliminary results obtained with a view to develop a tool to regularly assess the public perception of ECB's monetary policy communication.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims at implementing a mobile robotic platform for supporting our research effort concentrated at the development of intelligent sensors for healthcare applications. The robotic platform will support our research effort by enabling the collection of large amounts of experimental data for extracting sensor models, calibration algorithms and in the development of sensors aimed at the application in autonomous robotic systems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Steckel Jan

Research team(s)

• Co-Design of Cyber-Physical Systems (Cosys-Lab)
• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

With the globalisation of the world's economies and ever-evolving financial structures, fraud has become one of the main dissipaters of government wealth and possibly a major contributor in the slowing down of economies in general. Automated data mining systems that look for fraud patterns in historical data, have been on the rise to tackle this problem. In this multidisciplinary project, we will develop, apply and validate new data mining techniques to accurately predict which entities (be it companies or persons) are likely fraudsters, by considering concepts as different data types, privacy, intuitiveness and comprehensibility of the predictions. This project will make use of existing contacts with the federal government, and will be the formal start of a novel research theme within the Antwerp Tax Academy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Co-promoter: Peeters Bruno
• Fellow: Vanhoeyveld Jellis

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Daems Walter
• Fellow: Steckel Jan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Water distribution system design optimization is a heavily researched area in the field of hydraulics. This research is limited to theoretical, unnecessary complicated models, which can not be used in reallife applications. The aim is to develop a practical tool, that can support water distribution companies in taking network design decisions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: De Corte Annelies

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we focus on the question: how can we measure economic policy uncertainty (EPU)? We recently proposed an EPU index for Belgium, by mining online news articles from all major newspapers. Given the promising results, we aim to apply this text mining-based methodology to other countries as well (G8 countries), and create a publicly available website where the index is automatically updated for all countries on a weekly basis.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Co-promoter: Daelemans Walter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Province of Antwerp. UA provides the Province of Antwerp research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project seeks to answer a number of fundamental questions in the field of knowledge transfer from academic institutions and corporate organisations. On one hand, it focuses on the flipped knowledge transfer model and the challenges associated to the 'classic' technology transfer model in academie settings. On the other hand, it tries to understand the challenges of these knowledge transfer activities in corporate settings and leam from the lessons leamed in the academic setting in this regard.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this research project, the development and implementation of a quantitative tool is foreseen, that should be available on a regular basis, which computes an index to assess the public perceptions of the ECB's monetary policy communication.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand Stad Antwerpen. UA provides Stad Antwerpen research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we therefore propose a novel approach that tackles the bicycle repositioning problem by decomposing it into two distinct subproblems, and developing innovative algorithms for both of them: (1) the generation of loading or unloading requests, and (2) the (dynamic) assignment of these requests to vehicles and the scheduling of requests within each vehicle.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Companies are currently storing massive volumes of data, which remain largely untapped. Data mining aims at finding interesting patterns in these vast amounts of data. The discovered patterns allow companies to better understand and even predict the needs and wishes of their customers. Response modelling is a common marketing application where we want to predict which customers are likely interested in a new product offering, based on historical patterns. The ability to predict the future has huge advantages for businesses, both in terms of increased profits and decreased losses. Even within this field, an important challenge nowadays that we try to address in this project, is how to analyze the huge amounts of granular behavioural data that is available to improve the performance of the resulting data mining models. Current data mining techniques can hardly be applied on such "big data".

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

It is the purpose of this research project to come up with new, original and groundbreaking approaches for credit risk modeling through innovations in input data to model different aspects of credit risk. For financial institutions, it is important to know which input data has the best prediction performance, how these data should be handled and which intrinsic characteristics should be taken into account to obtain the most accurate credit risk prediction. This research project will focus on the potential of social network and textual input data, and consists of four research objectives

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Tobback Ellen

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of this research is to develop vehicle routing algorithms for collaborative vehicle routing problems that can support logistics decision-making in horizontal coalitions of distribution companies. The algorithms will enable these coalitions to plan their joint operational "milk-run" distribution, but will also allow them to answer related tactical questions with respect to the contribution to the coalition gain of the (potential) partners in the coalition.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Defryn Christof

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall goal is to leverage available data assets of news publishers by finding patterns that allow a personalized approach, e.g. in the targeting of online ads. The insights that will be obtained by mining such data with specialized "big data analytics" algorithms, will be used for premium advertising and performance advertising (selling by clicks on ads).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand Erasmus Mundus. UA provides Erasmus Mundus research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Patterns are looked for in fraud data with the use of data mining techniques. Specifically tailored big data mining techniques will be validated on the obtained anonymized transactional data and fraud labels.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goethals Bart
• Co-promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• ADReM Data Lab (ADReM)
• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand a private institution. UA provides the private institution research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Advanced Sonar sensing provides an accurate and low-cost sensing modality for environment perception. By using a powerful emitter and an array of receivers, 3D perception of the environment can be achieved combining a large field of view (full frontal hemisphere). Two applications of the sensor in the fields of electric wheelchairs and robotics are developed.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Many bat species are being monitored by placing a sound triggered recorder in the field. Such recorders register the echolocation calls of passing bats over long periods of time. The current bat recorders suffer from a number of shortcomings. In this project, we address these by developing an array system consisting of independent recording devices instead of the single microphone recorders that are currently used. The aim of this project is to build a proof-of-concept of this array system consisting of five units, and to deploy them in the field where their performance will be compared to a number of existing bat recorder systems that are currently the 'gold standard' of bat surveying. The project will also result in a business plan for marketing the array system.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vanderelst Dieter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project's objective is to develop methods for creating cost-efficient plans for industrial experiments involving large numbers of factors that yield more and better information and thus enable faster innovation. To this end, we exploit the class of non-regular orthogonal arrays to construct designs for multi-stratum experiments and apply state-of-the-art integer linear programming optimization techniques from the field of operations research/management science in the area of design of experiments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goal of the E'CHO project is to evaluate a 3D sonar sensor, which has been developed and patented at the Univeristy of Antwerp, in realistic industrial environments. More specific, we will investigate the methods for applying the sonar sensor in two specific tasks on Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) which are being developed by Egemin Automation Handling

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Steckel Jan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project, supported by the Swedish Promobilia Foundation, tests the feasibility of a 3D sonar system on electric wheelchairs. The goal of the project is to implement different algorithms which support the user of the wheelchair using environmental information generated by the sonar sensor. This could be used to implement for example obstacle avoidance behaviour.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Steckel Jan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main objectives of this project are: - Bring together the available Belgian expertise on combinatorial optimization problems, exploit synergies between the partner research groups, and create a network with a sufficient mass to attract young and experienced top-level scientists in Belgium, and further financing for research in the field. - Train young researchers in the field of combinatorial optimization. - Develop new models, algorithmic techniques and implementations for complex, large-scale combinatorial optimization problems. - Develop new international collaborations with other large teams working in the field of combinatorial optimization.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to develop new cost-efficient experimental plans that yield more and better information and thus enable faster innovation in the presence of factors with hardto-change levels. To this end, we use the new family of staggered-level experimental designs. We develop construction methods for staggered-level designs with any number of hard-tochange factors. A novel feature of our approach is that, unlike published work on the design of split-(split-)plot experiments, it aims at a precise estimation of all factor effects as well as at a precise estimation of the variance components in the estimated model. To this end, we apply state-of-the-art combinatorial optimization techniques to the design of experiments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Fellow: Arnouts Heidi

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Many real-life networks are bi-partite in nature, meaning the nodes of the network can be separated in two disjoint types and edges exist only between nodes of different type. Think for example of academic authors being linked to the papers they have authored, or mobile devices linked to the locations they visited. Quite often only the projected network is used: a network of authors, linked if they share a paper, or a network of mobile devices, linked if they visited the same location. This however leads to substantial information loss and an increase in network size. Although network analysis and learning has emerged as an important field in both social sciences, humanities and computer science, very little work exists on this specific type of network. In this project we will define new metrics to analyze the global properties of such networks, study their evolution over time, develop tailored network learning techniques, and validate our designs with large-scale network data. We shall specifically focus on three real-life cases: the author-paper network using public data as well using as data from University of Antwerp, the customer-payment receiver network using data from a large European bank, and finally a mobile device-location network using data from a US-based ad exchange. Our findings should lead to novel insights into human behavior, theory building and improved predictive modeling.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Stankova Marija

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims at immersing an artificial echolocator, the Chirocopter, i.e. an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a sonar emission and recording apparatus, in real environments, re-enacting the behaviour recorded from freely behaving bats. As such, this project is the first to collect an ecologically valid set of sonar stimuli (echoes) as perceived by flying bats. In particular, the dataset collected using the Chirocopter allows testing the hypothesis that a statistical representation of the environment underlies the navigation abilities of bats. The applicant argues that putting a researcher in the bats' cockpit and fly along, will lead to similar advances as have been booked in studies that mapped out the stimulus sets for non-echolocating animals. Besides directly addressing a long-standing biological question, the project will also result in a sonar based control algorithm that can be used for outdoor navigation by flying robots. Indeed, the current project will strengthen the research into sonar based navigation for robotic applications at the Active Perception Lab (i.e. the host lab).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Fellow: Vanderelst Dieter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Water distribution system design optimization is a heavily researched area in the field of hydraulics. This research is limited to theoretical, unnecessary complicated models, which can not be used in reallife applications. The aim is to develop a practical tool, that can support water distribution companies in taking network design decisions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: De Corte Annelies

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of this research is to develop vehicle routing algorithms for collaborative vehicle routing problems that can support logistics decision-making in horizontal coalitions of distribution companies. The algorithms will enable these coalitions to plan their joint operational "milk-run" distribution, but will also allow them to answer related tactical questions with respect to the contribution to the coalition gain of the (potential) partners in the coalition.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Defryn Christof

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand FISCH. UA provides FISCH research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Cool Pegie
• Co-promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-promoter: Meynen Vera

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project includes the drafting of a reference framework for sustainable higher education for the Flemish higher education.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Co-promoter: Hugé Jean

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Social network data is very valuable for marketing purposes, as social relationships tend to be made between people with similar characteristics, a concept known as homophily. Addressing network neighbors of current customers can therefore be a very efficient marketing strategy. In this project, we will develop and apply advanced social network analysis algorithms for marketing and finance applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to run an online discrete choice experiment to quantify housing preferences of young people in Antwerp. We will ask a panel of respondents to choose between different housing accommodations ranging from collective housing to individual studios. The study will allow us to validate our latest Bayesian design methodology and to define a policy plan in the housing market.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Promoter: Kessels Roselinde

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand VMM. UA provides VMM research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Determining the optimal configuration of a distribution network for gas or water gives rise to a complex optimization problem, one of the reasons being that the feasibility and economic cost of a certain configuration can only be determined using simulation. In this project we will develop efficient optimization methods (metaheuristics) for this type of problem. The methods will be tested and applied in collaboration with distribution network administration companies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Mertens Luc

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Discrete choice experiments (DCEs), which involve respondents choosing among alternatives presented in choice sets, are widely used to study preferences for attributes of products or services in various economic fields. To maximize the power of the statistical inference from data from DCEs, it is crucial to design the experiments optimally. Most research in this area focuses on optimizing the design of DCEs under the simplifying assumption that respondents make compensatory decisions. This means that unattractive levels of an attribute can be compensated for by attractive levels of another attribute. However, the assumption of compensatory decision-making often proves to be unrealistic. This research project studies three scenarios in which respondents depart from the compensatory decision rule when making choices: (i) the scenario where respondents ignore attributes in the decision making because there are too many, (ii) the scenario where respondents favor certain attributes because of their position in the description of the alternatives and (iii) the scenario where respondents favor certain alternatives because of their position in the choice set. Pro-actively accounting for respondents' cognitive processes when constructing optimal DCEs in these scenarios will result in more practical designs for DCEs, with applications in marketing, transportation, environmental and health economics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Co-promoter: Erreygers Guido
• Fellow: Kessels Roselinde

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project aims to develop a generic mechanism for coordination between departments in order to achieve a "collaborative supply chain management". By providing dynamic interaction between the various parties in the supply chain network an improved overall planning can be achieved. PearlChain.net's software is already generically built according to the "model-based" principle (departments, resources, capabilities, capacities, etc.). The system to generically negotiate between departments, customers and suppliers has yet to be developed. This project will aim to develop an innovative method to coordinate between various department-specific production planning problems within a supply chain alignment, but without creating a "global" actor who oversees the entire planning. The tuning of a specific production unit, will instead be achieved by communication / coordination between different departments. The interaction between departments should lead to reduced stock and reduced production time. The goal is to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the production process (Supply Chain) between various parties.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand UGent. UA provides UGent research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Reniers Genserik

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Horizontal collaboration among distributors is one of the most promising approaches to decrease supply chain costs and increase supply chain sustainability. However, effective joint supply chain planning is more complicated and requires methods and tools for operational planning that are able to distribute the gains that arise from collaboration fairly, rewarding flexibility. This research aims to develop such a profit allocation method and integrate it in a tool using metaheuristic to create an efficient operational plan.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Vanovermeire Christine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Bats have large external ears. Being flying animals, this is rather unique as birds do not have these appendages. Evolution must have altered the morphology of the bat's pinnae to find a suitable trade-off between better hearing (needing larger ears) and agile flight (needing smaller ears). In this project, we want to investigate, by using computational techniques, how evolution has reconciled conflicting requirements in bats from different ecological backgrounds. Also, the aerodynamic effects of substructures of the bat's morphology that have only been evaluated in terms of the their acoustic role (the noseleaf and the tragus) will be investigated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we will investigate how general and stock market specific news items can be analysed with advanced text mining techniques to automatically predict the effect on Belgian stock prices. Insights will be obtained into which news providers and which combinations of words have the largest effect. The developed system will be evaluated as a trading tool, as well as decision support system for investors.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Co-promoter: Daelemans Walter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal service agreement between UA and on the other hand Belspo. UA provides Belspo research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand GS1 Belgium & Luxembourg. UA provides GS1 Belgium & Luxembourg research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Training transfer is defined as the extent to which trainees apply their knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired in training to the working situation. This project will explore the role of transfer strategy and its interaction with training design, training characteristics and work environment as these affect training transfer. The project has the potential to create a new framework for the development of a systematic approach of the transfer process.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan
• Promoter: Masson Henri
• Fellow: Pham Nga

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project concerns the development of data mining techniques with applications in the broad business administration domain. From a theoretical perspective, several rule induction techniques (AntMiner+ and ALBA) and data analysis frameworks have been developed. The final acceptability of the models is always of primary concern in the research by including domain knowledge and focusing on comprehensible data mining models. From an application perspective, the P.I. works mainly in a credit risk management and marketing setting, as well as innovatively applied data mining in the software engineering, auditing and corporate performance domains. Current and future research further expands on previous findings, among others moving from classification to regression techniques and frameworks. Additionally, a strong focus on the use of networked data is envisioned, one of the key research directions in current data mining research. How to obtain and apply such data when no explicit social network is available, such as in the banking industry, constitutes one of the core theoretical research objectives. Marketing applications include the prediction of response, churn and wallet share, while an interesting risk management application is credit scoring, both at the retail and corporate level.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Martens David
• Fellow: Martens David

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims at developing adaptive approaches for conducting online conjoint choice studies to detect an unknown number of latent market segments. The new approach will build on optimal design of experiments methodology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Currently, no usable methods exist to solve dangerous goods vehicle routing problems while taking into account both economical and safety criteria. This research therefore aims at two innovations: (1) the development of a novel method for multi-objective optimization, that integrates a multi-criteria method into a multi-objective metaheuristic, and (2) the application of this method to one or more real-life vehicle routing problems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Springael Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) annually publishes a State of the Environment Report (SOER) of Flanders called MIRA-T. This report describes the state of the environment and nature in Flanders, analyses the observed evolutions and assesses the already implemented policy measures. This project aims to partially update the background document for the "Energy sector" within the context of MIRA-T.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The envisaged achievement of this project is to perform groundbreaking work in the optimal design of experiments for estimating variance components in random effects models and for the joint estimation of fixed effects and variance components in mixed effects models, in general, and splitplot, strip-plot and split-split-plot models, in particular. The design of experiments for an efficient estimation of variance components is one of the remaining challenges in the field of optimal experimental design, so that the successful completion of this project would thus be a major breakthrough in statistical design of experiments.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Fellow: Mylona Kalliopi

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Co-promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Busschaert Sylvie

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to study the rebound effects linked to the increased efficiency of energy use by Belgian households and to analyse the policy instruments to attenuate, neutralize or possibly prevent the counterproductive phenomena of rebound, in order to lead to an effective decrease in the quantity of emitted greenhouse gases (GHG). The project focuses on dwelling energy consumption and household mobility.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project develops and tests relevant criteria for evaluation and comparison of two energy modelling tools (SEPIA-LEAP - an energy accounting simulation model and MARKAL-TIMES - a partial equilibrium energy optimisation model) as a support for deliberations on long-term sustainable energy policy in the Belgian context. Both tools are currently used in two project funded under the BELSPO programme 'Science for Sustainable Development' (2008-2010).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project proposal aims at facilitating and improving the Measure phase and the Improve phase of the DMAIC strategy. The Measure phase deals with the quality of the measurement equipment. This is important because it is impossible to collect high quality data without a proper measurement system. We will seek novel methods for carrying out measurement studies (also known as gauge R&R studies) that will improve the data quality while reducing the cost in the Measure phase. We will also develop methodology for conducting better experiments in the Improve phase. The focus will be on cost-efficient data collection by means of nested experimental designs. Our work on the Measure and the Improve phases of the DMAIC strategy is of utmost importance for the success of Six Sigma quality improvement projects because, without adequate measurements and high-quality data, it is impossible to take well-informed decisions to improve quality. A common feature of the research problems in the Measure phase and the Improve phase is that they require an optimal data collection approach or experimental design. More specifically, it is important that the collected data allow a precise quantification of variability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project aims at investigating which factors have a major influence on future success or failure of a spin-off or spin-out company. An important aspect of the study will be to define what is considered to be a success and what a failure. The final goal is however not to discover success or failure criteria, but to build a model enabling to provide a full assessment in the early stages of the venture.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan
• Fellow: De Cleyn Sven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Soudan Karel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Federal Public Service. UA provides the Federal Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Both the industrial and the service sector are enthusiastic to perform fundamental research on decision support in cooperation with an academic partner. In this research, techniques from the broad area of OR/MS (operations research/management science) are used to support decisions on different levels (strategic to operational). This initial grant is an excellent occasion to build this multidisciplinary line of research, that aligns with several departments of the Faculty of Applied Economics of the Universiteit Antwerpen.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Both the industrial and the service sector are enthusiastic to perform fundamental research on decision support in cooperation with an academic partner. In this research, techniques from the broad area of OR/MS (operations research/management science) are used to support decisions on different levels (strategic to operational). This initial grant is an excellent occasion to build this multidisciplinary line of research, that aligns with several departments of the Faculty of Applied Economics of the Universiteit Antwerpen.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sörensen Kenneth
• Fellow: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to carry out fundamental research into the possibilities and difficulties of applying RC to some challenging auditory pattern recognition applications such as spatial environment recognition from a multi-channel active or passive sonar signal and continuous speech recognition in background noise.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This projects aims at developing novel search algorithms for finding optimal experimental designs. For that purpose, the newest methods for combinatorial optimization in operational research, involving metaheuristics, will be used in a new application area, the design of experiments. Both problems with a single objective as problems withmultiple objectives will receive our attention.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Co-promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project investigates the application of acoustic sensors for distance measurement in robotics. The motion of the robot approaching a surface is guarded by the sensor. The sensors will be tested while cleaning the surface of artworks and exterior walls.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project intends to stimulate companies to make their products and production processes more sustainable by applying well-considered materials and materials technology. in order to realise this objective, the project consortium takes four steps. First, it investigates which incentives and impediments influence the use of innovative materials technologies. We look for and describe various concrete examples. Companies willing to testify of their experiences are interviewed and asked to fill in a small questionnaire. Lessons drawn from interviews and questionnaires are communicated to a wide audience. In case the companies concerned agree, they will present their cases to other companies in order to inspire them: to look for their own opportunities to organise their production processes and design their products in more sustainable ways via the implementation of suitable materials and materials technologies. In a third phase, interested companies are guided to discern opportunities for sustainable materials innovation with the help of an opportunity scan. Development and application of this scan is one objective of the project. In the following and final stage the project consortium will discuss, together with interested companies, opportunities for sustainable innovation and work out an implementation trajectory. The consortium will pay equal attention to the three dimensions of sustainable development: planet, people, and profit. In short, 1) by focussing a) on the meaning that companies themselves assign to the concept of sustainable development and b) on reasons and considerations of companies to use specific materals and technologies, and 2) by concentrating on knowledge diffusion towards and between companies, we will engage with the production industry in Flanders in order to contribute to sustainable development.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Bergmans Anne
• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Co-promoter: Crabbé Ann
• Co-promoter: Deblonde Marian
• Co-promoter: Loots Ilse

Research team(s)

• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change
• Society and Environment
• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Versatile and robust systems able to respond sensibly to challenges not precisely specified in their design depend on (amongst other competences) effective perception systems able to function in complex and variable conditions. The principal objective of the proposed project is to discover how to engineer such systems, specifically embodied active sonar perception systems which can serve as a complement to vision and facilitate the deployment of robotic systems in situations where vision is infeasible. For understanding the implementation of sonar systems able to function in demanding and open-ended environments, the Chiroptera (bats) are an obvious source of ideas. Their astounding diversity of diet and habitat attests to their success in integrating morphological, acoustic and behavioural parameters to enable robust and versatile hunting behaviours --- the bat equivalent of tangible object handling. The project will implement and evaluate two demonstration systems built as biomimetic models of an insect gleaning and a water-trawling bat species respectively. It will use a classic biomimetic methodology, involving close collaboration between bat ethologists and roboticists. It will proceed by identifying and measuring the relevant acoustic and morphological parameters of a few carefully selected bat species, reconstructing from that the bat's acoustic experience as it flies through natural hunting tasks. From this data, computational models of how the bat coordinates its acoustic, behavioural and morphological choices during hunting will be elicited and implemented on appropriate robotic systems. The robustness, versatility and generality of these implemented models will be evaluated from an engineering standpoint as example embodied active sonar perception systems, using tasks analogous to the hunting tasks of their living prototypes; evaluation from a biological standpoint will also be carried out.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In order to meet these challenging conditions for strategic knowledge production, the SEPIA project aims at innovative methodological developments in the field of policy support for a long-term sustainable energy strategy in Belgium, with an emphasis om - ong-term energy foresight from a normative perspective (using a 'back-casting' approach); - Planetary scope (the global perspective is the point of departure for defining sustainability criteria); - Governance (by checking support for long-term energy scenarios with a wide range of energy policy actors); - Integrated assessment (trom energy services to primary energy demands, including all life-cycle stage of energy technologies); - Interdisciplinarity (analysis from technological/economic/sociological perspectives); - Uncertainties in the long run (uncertainty management). Although the SEPIA project focuses on the Belgian energy system (strongly embedded in the European context), the (methodological) reflections of course have a much wider relevance.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goal of this project is to develop a framework for building robust calibration models for heterogeneous spectral data in the context of a quality control process. Because of the complex, high-dimensional nature of spectral data, more advanced multivariate statistical models than multiple linear regression models will be needed. As a matter of fact, the complex and heterogeneous nature of the data necessitates the use of robust versions of principal components regression and partial least squares regression. One objective of the project is to determine the method that leads to the best calibration model and to suggest improvements to the robust principal components method currently used. During the development of the framework for building calibration models, a substantial amount of attention will also be paid to robust preprocessing techniques (including data clustering methods) and to model validation, and to an out-of-control action plan that will allow the predictions made by the calibration model to be used on the work floor. By using robust statistical techniques, we hope to build calibration models for a more reliable monitoring of whether or not a production process is in statistical control. Also, the calibration models should allow a correct identification of batches that are out of the specification limits. For these purposes, the graphical tools accompanying the robust statistical methods will be exploited. These tools, which are called regression outlier maps, classify the samples into regular data, vertical outliers, bad leverage points or good leverage points. For quality control purposes, it is crucial to inspect the vertical outliers and bad leverage points because they correspond to samples with a large response value with a normal spectrum and samples with abnormal response values and aberrant spectra. The use of robust preprocessing techniques and robust data clustering will contribute to the predictive quality of the calibration models. The newly developed procedures will be tested extensively on simulated data sets, real data sets from companies such as SESVANDERHAVE and on two data sets of Aveve Veevoeding. One Aveve data set contains measurements of grinded samples, while the other contains spectra of ungrinded samples. The data were collected for the purpose of building calibration models for quality control purposes. Building a satisfactory calibration model using these data with standard methods available in software, however, turned out to be impossible. This is due to the heterogeneous structure of the data, and suggests that the use of robust preprocessing methodology and robust multivariate statistical techniques, some of which are still to be developed, is required. An additional interesting research question at Aveve is to find out whether the data set with measurements for the ungrinded samples could be used to construct good calibration models. An affirmative answer would allow Aveve to use ungrinded samples only, and to skip the operator-dependent and time-consuming grinding operation. Furthermore, the Aveve case study can be used to assess the usefulness of the data clustering methods for improving the predictive power of the robust calibration models. This is because each of the two data sets contains measurements for different kinds of animal feed. Ideally, the robust framework developed in this project should lead to calibration models that can readily be implemented at Aveve's production plants. This practical implementation will require an automated out-of-control action plan, the development of which is one of the main objectives of this project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Fellow: Verboven Sabine

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project aims at investigating which factors have a major influence on future success or failure of a spin-off or spin-out company. An important aspect of the study will be to define what is considered to be a success and what a failure. The final goal is however not to discover success or failure criteria, but to build a model enabling to provide a full assessment in the early stages of the venture.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan
• Fellow: De Cleyn Sven

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

AG2020 will use an innovative scenario method to develop a range of policy scenarios that can meet EU targets of sustainability (economic, regional development, environment, and food safety and quality). Key indicators of these targets will be identified and used to assess the influence of world market developments in a range of policy scenarios both at the global level, and specifically for the EU.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Fellow: Verbeke Stijn

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will focus on the development of a navigation-theory inspired by the navigation behaviour of bats. This theory will be aimed at making possible the construction and use of topologic i.e., 'landmark'-based, environment maps. Both sonar and vision sensors will provide the input for the observation of the environment and the movement through this environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert
• Co-promoter: Dhaene Tom
• Co-promoter: Penne Rudi

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to search for run orders for the cental composite design that allow an efficient estimation of the fixed parameters of the statistical model when the observations are serially correlated. Objectives : 1) Computation of optimal run orders for known serial correlation structures. 2) Computation of so-called robust orders that perform well for several correlation structures. Adopt and compare (i) a Bayesian approach and (ii) a maximin approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goals of this project are (1) to develop a branch-and-price algorithm based on a suitable mathematical programming formulation, in order to solve small and medium sized instances and (2) to develop a metaheuristic to quickly find good solutions to large-scale instances.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goos Peter
• Co-promoter: Sörensen Kenneth

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goals of the above-presented research question are as follows: -intelligibly collecting and arranging data on innovation and the economic growth of Antwerp in comparison to Amsterdam, -to show through the instrumental cases of Antwerp and Amsterdam (and their economic hinterland) that their respective patterns of growth and innovation are the result of (dis)similarities in the socio-cultural embedded nature of innovation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Braet Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ClLIA project will explore the use of arrays of hairs in three sensing scenarios: in air, in water, and in a fluid-filled compartment coupled to air through impedance matching devices and beam- forming baffles. For each scenario, adaptations across phylogeny and ontogeny will be studied. The twofold principal objeclive of the ClLIA project is to identify the common principles underlying the widespread use in nature of arrays of mechanical sensory cells for the extraction of meaning under adverse conditions and to make those principles available for design of engineered systems. It is generally believed that organisms and their environments form tightly coupled interacling systems in which all components -environmental characteristics and dynamics, sensory and physical morphology, peripheral and central neural processing and behavioural pa!lems- play a significant role in the extraction of meaning from experience. Furthermore, knowledge of the transformations and processes performed by peripheral systems is essential for true understanding of the organisation and operation of central neuronal processing, since peripheral systems provide the input to centraiones. The knowledge gained wil! clarify the tasks to be addressed by central system mod- els and wil! allow for the design of more powerful integrated mode's of central and peripheral processing.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will analyse the existing location of civil services. It contains fire services, civil protection and medical inetervention. The focus will be on the fire service. The field of study is the Belgian national territory. Seeverla dimensions will be studied: coverage of the territory, intervention time, location optimistaion, unit dimension and unit capacity.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The study is a brief policy advice regarding the optimal strategy of the city for the supply of drinking water to the inhabitants and companies located in Ypres, given the changes going on in this sector.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objectives of this project are : -to define the most appropriate participatory methodology to obtain a useful input from citizens into modelling of pesticides risk assessment; -to test the methodology, and define its feasibility; -to initiate contacts with interested participants and potential organising institutions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Batching is an important decision in operations management. In the literature, a vast amount of inventory models can be found. The most important common characteristic is that these models are based on costs and not on the physical characteristics of the production system. There already exist models that model and optimize the physical characteristics and that are not related to cost parameters. Minimizing the lead time or maximizing the customer service is an example of such `physical' models. Most of these models are based on queueing theory. Several models are described for operations planning goals. The main application of these models is in the discrete manufacturing systems. The goal is to extend the models to the (semi-)process industries.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico
• Fellow: Goossens Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims at investigating to which extent managerial decisions influence the performance and delivery reliability of a production system. More specifically, we will study the following four types of managerial decisions: a) transfer batch sizing in production lines consisting of an arbitrary number of stages; b) allocation of product types to resources; c) allocation of priorities for processing; d) the impact of a load-oriented material control system (POLCA).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico
• Fellow: Van Nieuwenhuyse Inneke

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ultimate object of the NEEDS Integrated Project is to evaluate the full costs (i.e. direct + external) of energy policies and of future energy systems, both at the level of individual countries and for the enlarged EU as a whole.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In preparation of the upcoming MIRA-S scenario report MTT will develop a `scenario-definition model' aka `SAVER' for the commercial sector. This model should allow the appraisal of different user-defined policy scenario's (sets of both measures and instruments) as regards energy consumption per energy carrier (coal, natural gas, fuel oil, electricity, ') and the ensuing environmental pressures (climate change, acid deposition, photochemical oxidation, ') of the commercial sector. Environmental pressure will also be accounted for per pollutant (SOx, NOx, CO2, CH4, '). The emissions balance will be harmonized with current estimation methods at VMM. During the construction of the model use will be made of an analysis technique called 'energy accounting'. This technique allows considering both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the analysis, thus leaving the opportunity to employ both judgmental and formal mathematical models.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For the state-of-the-environment report for Flanders MIRA-T 2004, STEM co-authored the chapter on environmental pressures emanating from the energy sector in Flanders. STEM also co-authored the scientific report for this particular chapter.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve
• Co-promoter: Aerts Walter

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project aims to develop evaluation criteria and indicators to assess university research on elements of sustainable development. It also seeks to gain insights into the implementation of such evaluation criteria at a university, taking into account the broader institutional context in which university research is accomplished. Qualitative research methods will be used.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Co-promoter: Goorden Lieve
• Co-promoter: Masson Henri

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve
• Co-promoter: Loots Ilse

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Soudan Karel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The elaboration and redaction of chapter 1.3 on Energy for the MIRA-report (report on the state of the environment in Flanders).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Springael Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project intends to extend the current advanced resource planning models into two directions: one focussing the supply chain issues (demand management) and one studying execution management. The former include issues like modelling demand uncertainty (and the effect on lead times), countering the bull-whip effect (by finding the determinants of the bull whip effect) en the issue of differentiation of lead times in terms of the specific customer and product type. The latter part of the project studies execution mechanisms: authorisation and release mechanisms bases on lead time information, the allocation of safety time and the allocation of customer orders into manufacturing batches and finally, an investigation on how bottlenecks influence these research items.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Batching is an important decision in operations management. In the literature, a vast amount of inventory models can be found. The most important common characteristic is that these models are based on costs and not on the physical characteristics of the production system. There already exist models that model and optimize the physical characteristics and that are not related to cost parameters. Minimizing the lead time or maximizing the customer service is an example of such `physical' models. Most of these models are based on queueing theory. Several models are described for operations planning goals. The main application of these models is in the discrete manufacturing systems. The goal is to extend the models to the (semi-)process industries.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico
• Fellow: Goossens Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Springael Johan

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The goal of this project is to reproduce, at a functional lever, the echolocation system of bats by constructing a bionic bat head that can then be used to systematically investigate how the world is not just perceived but actively explored by bats. This bionic bat head must be of similar size to a real bat head to reproduce the relevant physics and consist of an emission/reception system capable of generating/processing bat vocalisations in real-time, a multi-degree of freedom mechanical system to allow realistic pinnae movement and shape control. Constructing the bionic head itself is one objective but a second objective is to gain more insight into neural sensory-data encoding from using the head in echolocation tasks routinely executed by bats.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Peremans Herbert

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The creation of liberalised Single European Markets has led to higher efficiency in the supply of electricity and gas. However, there still are numerous barriers to energy efficiency, and a higher involvement of energy companies in activities promoting energy efficiency in end-use. The European Commission has thus proposed to support the development of the market for Energy Services as a priority area in the Energy Efficiency Action Plan. Both the Energy Council and the European Parliament confirmed this priority. Appropriate EU policy initiatives may be proposed until or during 2002.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Goorden Lieve

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Gearing social scientific research to health and environmental policy options requires knowledge-building in three areas: ° insight into risk perceptions and assessments by the public; ° insight into adequate ways of communicating about risks and risk assessments; insight into the new communicative role of the authorities in the context of a more proactive and preventive position in relation to environmental and health risks. Attention needs to be focused on how these insights can be translated into practicable tools for existing institutions, networks and procedures in health and environmental policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Co-promoter: Goorden Lieve
• Co-promoter: Loots Ilse

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Given the scientific and social complexity of current environmental policy issues, Flemish environmental policy is in need of innovation in relation to decision-making. The purpose of this project is to put forward promising concepts and methods for interactive and argumentative decision-making. Comparative case studies of foreign and Flemish experiences with the implementation of such concepts will result in a practicable checklist of local points which civil servants could use in the design of processes of interactive and argumentative decision-making. The ultimate goal of this project is to test and improve this checklist through action research focusing on the interactive development of a long-term vision on sustainable development and environmental policy planning in Flanders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verbruggen Aviel
• Co-promoter: Goorden Lieve
• Co-promoter: Loots Ilse

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico
• Fellow: Van Nieuwenhuyse Inneke

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandaele Nico

Research team(s)

• Engineering Management

Project type(s)

• Research Project