University of Coimbra student honoured by multinational Asea Brown Boveri
The ABB Award recognises the student’s work on his Master’s dissertation in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Coimbra.
Eduardo José Santos Borges, a student at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (DEEC) of the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), has been awarded the 2023/2024 "ABB Prize" by the multinational company Asea Brown Boveri (ABB). The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, 5 June at 15:30 at the FCTUC Central Unit on Campus 2 of the University of Coimbra.
The award recognises the student’s dissertation titled “DL-Based Multimodal Object Detection and Tracking Targeting Industrial AMRs”, completed as part of the Master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, and includes a €1,000 prize and the opportunity to do a paid internship at ABB.
In his research, Eduardo Borges developed an innovative, multimodal method for detecting and identifying dynamic elements of interest, such as people and robots. This method is designed to enhance the autonomous navigation of mobile robots in industrial settings and improve safety by preventing collisions.
The system was developed as part of the “Green Auto – Green Innovation for the Automotive Industry” (PPS18) project, a strategic initiative led by Peugeot Citroën Automóveis Portugal, SA. The project aims to develop and implement innovative technological solutions that promote greater efficiency and sustainability in the automotive sector.
Mário do Ó, Head of Motion Business & Executive Board Member at ABB Portugal, says that the partnership between ABB and FCTUC, established in the 2014/15 academic year, has been crucial in facilitating the exchange of knowledge regarding automation, motors, and variable-speed drives. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to preparing the next generation of engineers for tomorrow's industrial challenges, and we hope it continues to yield positive results”.
The “ABB Award” is awarded annually to the FCTUC Master’s student in Electrical and Computer Engineering who achieves the highest mark for a dissertation in the fields of Industrial Automation, Automatic Control, Robotics, Home Automation, or Drive and Variable-Speed Systems.