KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Keynote Speaker

Hydrogen Horizons: Navigating the Global Energy Transition

Dr CJ Guo

Program Director, Industrial Liaison Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA

Abstract – The speaker will present an overview of the global energy transition trends with a focus on hydrogen, their progress, technology learning curves, economics and suggested future directions. CJ Guo joined the Office of Corporate Relations at MIT in July, 2015 after an extensive industrial career and global experience in technology portfolio management and business development in the energy and petrochemical sectors with leading multinational corporations (Shell, Air Liquide, BOC, and CANMET). Guo was expatriated to China as the Emerging Technology Theme Leader (Beijing) for Shell from 2011 to 2015 and a Senior Technology Advisor (Houston) with Shell Hydrogen from 2006 to 2010 during which he also served for one year as Chairman, Fuel Operations Group for the US DOE FreedomCar Partnership, USA. Before Shell, CJ has held positions as Technology Program Manager for Air Liquide, as Lead Engineer for The BOC Group (now Linde) in the US and as research scientist for CANMET in Canada. Guo earned his Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, at Cleveland State University, his M.S. and B.S., Chemical Engineering at Taiyuan University of Technology, and his mini MBA (Oil & Gas) with CWC School for Energy. Dr. C.J. Guo is Program Director at MIT‘s Corporate Relations Office since 2015. Before MIT, he has a successful industrial career of over 25 years with multinational corporations including Shell and Air Liquide in technology innovation, development, commercialization and investment in the energy industry globally, mostly the US and China.

Dr.-Ing. H. Ilham Akbar Habibie, Dipl.Ing., M.B.A

Abstract – Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are revolutionizing cargo and people mobility, offering efficient, fast delivery and urban air mobility solutions. UAVs can bypass traditional infrastructure, delivering goods swiftly, especially in remote areas, and play a crucial role in emergency response. The concept of air taxis promises to reduce urban congestion. However, challenges such as regulatory frameworks, technical limitations, and public acceptance need to be addressed. Advancements in AI, battery technology, and regulations are crucial for UAV integration into transportation systems. This talk will explore these innovations, challenges, and the future potential of UAVs in transforming mobility. Ilham Akbar Habibie, born on May 16, 1963, is a distinguished Indonesian technocrat and entrepreneur. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Munich, West Germany, graduating cum laude in 1987. He further pursued his education at the same institution, obtaining his Diploma-Ingenieur in 1987 and his Doktor-Ingenieur in 1994, both with the highest distinction of summa cum laude. In 1999, Ilham completed the International Executive Program at INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France, and Singapore. He later pursued his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the School of Business, University of Chicago, graduating in 2003. Ilham has been honored with the Bintang Satyalancana Wira Karya and Adikarsa Pemuda awards from the Indonesian government for his outstanding contributions. Professionally, Ilham has held various significant positions, including Director of Marketing at PT Dirgantara Indonesia from 1994 to 1996. He has served as Chairman of the National ICT Council and held executive roles as President Director of PT Ilthabi Rekatama, President Director of PT ILTHABI Bara Utama, and CEO of PT ILTHABI Rekatama. Additionally, he serves as Commissioner of PT. Pollux Barelang Mega Superblok Meisterstadt Batam. Ilham’s dedication to technological advancement and entrepreneurship continues to inspire and drive progress in Indonesia.

Empowering Rural Economies: The Strategic Importance of Innovation-Based Industries

Budiman Sudjatmiko, M.A., M.Phil.

Abstract – Empowering rural economies through innovation-based industries is crucial for fostering national economic growth and ensuring industrial resilience. This talk delves into the transformative potential of innovation within rural areas, highlighting how these regions can drive substantial economic benefits and contribute to a more balanced and sustainable national economy. By leveraging local resources, fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems, and encouraging technological advancements, rural areas can become hubs of innovation and productivity. This keynote will explore several key themes: the unique advantages rural regions offer for innovation, such as access to natural resources and strong community networks; the challenges they face, including infrastructure deficits and limited access to capital; and the strategies to overcome these challenges, such as public-private partnerships, targeted investment, and capacity-building initiatives. Through case studies and success stories from around the world, we will illustrate how rural innovation not only revitalizes local economies but also enhances national industrial resilience by diversifying economic activities and reducing dependency on urban centers. Attendees will gain insights into policy frameworks and best practices that support rural innovation, understanding the critical role of government, private sector, and community collaboration. By emphasizing the strategic importance of innovation-based industries in rural areas, this talk aims to inspire stakeholders to invest in and advocate for rural innovation, ultimately leading to more robust and resilient national economies. Budiman Sudjatmiko, M.A., M.Phil., is a prominent Indonesian activist, politician, and innovator known for his significant contributions to democracy and social justice. Born on March 10, 1970, Budiman has played a pivotal role in Indonesia’s political landscape, co-founding the People’s Democratic Party (PRD) and championing the Reformasi movement. He later served as a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) from 2009 to 2019 with the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), where he was active in committees focusing on defense, security, and technological research. An advocate for innovation and technology, Budiman is deeply involved in promoting start-up ecosystems and technological advancement in Indonesia.Budiman’s educational path comprises an MA in Political Studies from SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), University of London, England, and a Master in International Relations from the University of Cambridge, England, UK. This diverse academic foundation enhances his comprehension of development and governance. Passionate about advancing Indonesia’s technological capabilities, Budiman spearheaded the drafting of the Village Law in 2009 and later chaired the Innovator 4.0 Indonesia community. This initiative aims to propel Indonesia towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution by harnessing expertise in quantum computing, genetic engineering, renewable energy, and more. As an advocate for truth and transparency, Budiman’s efforts with Innovator 4.0 Indonesia include raising awareness about misinformation during elections and providing educational initiatives to combat it. Budiman Sudjatmiko’s multifaceted leadership and dedication to democratic values make him a respected figure both nationally and internationally.

Constrained Optimization for Unmanned Vehicles: From Thrust Allocation to Active Disturbance Reject Control

Keigo Watanabe

Specially Appointed Professor , Okayama University, Integrated Research Build. of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama , Japan

Abstract – The abstract addresses challenges in control allocation for various robotic systems, including omnidirectional robots, underwater robots, and drones. It emphasizes the importance of solving optimization problems tailored to each system’s actuation capabilities. Output-constrained control techniques using Barrier Lyapunov functions are discussed, focusing on the development of control algorithms for systems with specific constraints. Disturbance rejection control (DRC) methods, such as super-twisting control and active disturbance rejection control (ADRC), are highlighted for dealing with disturbances in underwater robots and drones. The use of extended state observers (ESOs) and unknown input observers for accurate disturbance estimation is emphasized. Furthermore, metaheuristic algorithms like particle swarm optimization are applied to optimize control parameters and path planning for UAVs. Keigo Watanabe is a renowned scholar in mechanical and aeronautical engineering, holding degrees from Japanese universities. Over his career, he has served in various academic roles, including full professorships at Saga University and Okayama University. With a prolific publication record of over 1040 technical papers and 54 books, he is a leading expert in intelligent control, bio-inspired robotics, and nonholonomic systems. Dr. Watanabe’s contributions include supervising 39 doctoral students and serving on editorial boards for numerous journals. He holds emeritus positions at Okayama University and Saga University and is recognized as a Fellow of esteemed engineering societies in Japan, in addition to being an IEEE member.

The Advancement of Deep Learning and Its Applications in Self Driving Vehicles

Prof. Dr. Ir. Bambang Riyanto Trilaksono, Phd

Institut Teknologi Bandung, School of Electrical and Informatics Engineering, Director of the Advanced Robotics Lab, STEI-ITB

Abstract – In the past decade, deep learning has rapidly evolved, fueled by powerful GPUs and vast data availability. It finds applications in various fields like computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics. Key models like CNNs, RNNs, LSTMs, VAEs, GANs, and Transformers play pivotal roles in different tasks. CNNs excel in image-related tasks, RNNs process sequential data, LSTMs address long-sequence issues, VAEs compress data efficiently, and GANs generate realistic data. Transformers revolutionize natural language processing, leading to advanced language models like ChatGPT and Gemini. Additionally, deep learning drives advancements in autonomous vehicles, particularly in perception systems utilizing sensors like cameras and lidar. The speaker shares experiences in developing an autonomous tram and discusses collaboration with PT INKA. Bambang Riyanto Trilaksono, born November 15th, 1962, in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, is a Professor at the School of Electrical and Informatics Engineering, ITB. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) and Master’s and Doctoral degrees from Waseda University, Japan. Bambang is a renowned expert in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics & Control, with over 171 publications and 10 registered copyrights, industrial designs, and patents. He has held various leadership positions at ITB and is a member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences and IEEE. Bambang has contributed significantly to national AI strategy and co-founded the AI start-up, Artificial Intelligence Research. He leads research teams developing underwater autonomous vehicles and autonomous vehicles/trams using AI in collaboration with industry partners. Bambang is actively engaged in international conferences and has co-edited books on intelligent unmanned systems. He is frequently invited as a speaker on AI and Robotics. 2020-2045, and was also one of the founders of the Korika organization (Artificial Intelligence industrial research and innovation collaboration). Bambang also has experience being involved in industry, especially the aerospace (IPTN) and maritime industries. Currently leading the research and innovation team for developing underwater autonomous vehicles in collaboration with BMKG & BIN and autonomous vehicles/trams using Artificial Intelligence (Rispro-LPDP), in collaboration with PT INKA and an AI startup. Bambang is also actively involved as vice chair and international program committee of several international conferences, including ICIUS (International Conference on Intelligent Unmanned Systems) and the Asian Control Conference. Bambang was also one of the editors of the book entitled “Intelligent Unmanned Systems: Theory and Applications”, published by Springer in 2009 (https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-642-00264-9). Bambang was frequently invited as a speaker at various seminars/webinars/forums on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

Role of spatiotemporal neural signal dynamics in motor cortex for reaching and feeding behaviors and potential implications for brain machine interface applications

Kazutaka Takahashi, Ph.D.

Ruten Inc. Naperville, IL, USA University of Chicago, Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, Chicago, IL, USA University of Missouri, Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Science, Columbia, MO, USA

Abstract – The significant technological development for the electrode arrays has been made over the last few decades, and the number of electrodes used to record neural signals has increased to gain more useful signals for the brain machine interface (BMI) applications. In addition to simply extracting the useful information to increase the performance of BMI, the interest to utilize the array geometry and to analyze spatiotemporal dynamics has grown over the past decade for better decoding performance. In this talk, I would like to illustrate spatiotemporal dynamics in the motor cortex and its relationship to behaviors both in visuomotor reaching movements and swallowing during natural feeding of non-human primates. In order to characterize the spatiotemporal dynamics of cortical oscillations and the network topology of spiking neurons, a series of computational frameworks, such as Spiking Neural Network (SNN), has been developed to form a new basis in computational neuroscience. The SNN analysis characterized the network change of motor cortical neurons in the amputated monkeys while they were learning how to use a multi-degree of freedom robot using their motor cortical signals. Finally, I will discuss the implications of those findings for multiple BMI applications both in upper limb movements and craniofacial movements. Dr. Kazutaka Takahashi obtained a Ph.D. in estimation and control theory from MIT, then was a postdoctoral fellow, research faculty, computational scientist, and senior research staff at University of Chicago specializing in sensorimotor neurophysiology and computational neuroscience both in animal models and human subjects. He has been working as a technical consultant and technical collaborator for neurotech companies including Blackrock Neurotech and NeuroNexus. He was a senior data scientist and electrophysiologist at Precision Neuroscience to work on the minimally invasive intracortical brain computer interface system development. Currently he is a cofounder and CEO/CSO of Ruten Inc. that develops brain machine interface systems for the unmet medical needs. He is also a principal investigator at the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Science, College of Health Sciences, University of Missouri. He has won multiple awards including the Best paper award (and nominated for best application award) at IEEE International conference on Soft computing and Intelligent systems / International symposium on Advanced intelligent systems, Kobe, Japan. He has more than 30 peer reviewed primary journal publications and more than 100 conference publications in neuroscience, neurotechnology, and biomedical engineering. He has been serving as an editor and reviewers for multiple primary peer reviewed journals and as a reviewer for US federal agencies including NIH and NSF.