Embedded Systems

The research specialisation of Embedded Systems focuses on developing the technology that is used to control various products such as cars, robots and machines. This research ranks internationally among the best in the world.

The researchers work close to industry and create technology which makes it possible to increase safety in health care, reduce risks in industry and simplify everyday life through smart solutions in our homes. A large part of this research is conducted in cooperation with industrial partners such as ABB and Volvo.

Four areas of focus

Computer and Data Science (CDS)

Computer and Data Science (CDS) conducts research on novel approaches, algorithms, techniques, and tools in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and machine learning, optimization, heterogeneous data from various sensing devices, software and hardware for robots, brain-like computing, as well as formal methods and static program analysis. Our models and algorithms can make predictions about physical and environmental phenomena and improve the systems’ ability to adapt and refine their behavior in real time, with a high degree of predictability assurance. The research ranges from theoretical contributions to applied ones in close collaboration with industry.

CDS is active in research and education on the following fronts:
1) Artificial intelligence, machine learning and optimization,
2) Formal methods and static analysis of programs, and
3) Robotics and data analysis.

Leader: Cristina Seceleanu External link.

Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)

The Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) research specialization conducts research with a focus on the (embedded) system’s run-time platform including execution of software, communication of data and control, and runtime adaptation mechanisms. Research at ECE addresses systems that are integrated into a physical, computing, or electrical environment, and are of criticality that require high reliability, high degree of safety and security, predictable timing, and performance, and often have limited resources for computation, communication, and energy. Such systems typically combine analog and digital hardware interconnected by wired or wireless communication as well as software for controlling the functionality of the system.

ECE is rooted in the classical academic subjects of Computer Engineering (CE) and Electrical Engineering (EE). Here, MDU’s researchers are particularly active within the following research areas
1) embedded and distributed systems, looking at predictable and efficient run-time platforms, protocols and mechanisms for execution of embedded and distributed systems’ software,
2) data communication, looking at research towards dependable communication through design, measurement and evaluation of theories and algorithms, aiming towards robust protocols for wired and wireless communication in time-critical applications, and
3) automation and control systems, including research towards modelling, analysis, optimization, and design of control systems for industrial applications, with focus on automation, robotics, and distributed systems applications.

Our main application areas include vehicular systems, process automation, and industrial robotics, where several solutions to research challenges are developed in close collaboration with industrial partners.

Leader: Thomas Nolte External link.

Medical and health engineering (MHE)

Medical and health engineering is an interdisciplinary field that unites engineering and medical sciences to create cutting-edge technologies with the purpose to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases, as well as to support human well-being. The field spans from the design and development of new devices, systems and methods to the improvement of existing ones.

The researchers within the Medical and Health Engineering (MHE) research area at MDU have competences in medical engineering, neuroengineering, sensor technology, sensor systems, electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, signal processing, artificial intelligence, human-system interaction, user-centered design, as well as physiology, psychology, and health.

A vital part of the research is the collaboration with scientific experts from other engineering disciplines including data communication and robotics, and with stakeholders representing the medical- and health sector, municipalities, and the private sector.

Leader: Maria Lindén External link.

Software and Systems Engineering (SSE)

Software and Systems Engineering (SSE) conducts research on theory, methods, processes, algorithms, and tools to support the design, development, testing, and maintenance of industrial software and software-intensive systems, including research on model-based development to simplify development and operation, dependability (e.g., safety and security) to assure that systems can be sufficiently trusted, and software testing, addressing quality attributes needed for dependability and performance.

Leader: Jan Carlson External link.

Third-cycle studies - our PhD programmes

Apart from conventional research studies within the subjects of Computer Science and Electronics, two company research schools in Embedded Systems are conducted in collaboration with a number of industrial companies. These company research schools give staff at the companies the opportunity to further educate themselves as researchers and to take doctoral degrees.

• ITS ESS-H is a company research school in Embedded Sensor Systems for Health, which is funded by the Knowledge Foundation.
  
• Array is an company research school in automation, developed in collaboration with several of the world's leading automation companies. It is funded by the Knowledge Foundation.
• RELIANT is an industrial graduate school for resilient intelligent autonomous systems, funded by the Knowledge Foundation.

Research profile

A research profile is a long-term strategic venture that involves researchers from several areas of skills. MDU's research profiles are conducted in collaboration with the private sector, which means that representatives from the companies involved work side by side with the researchers in the profile. Its purpose is to make use of one another’s skills and thereby achieve a better result.