1. Healthcare

Valorisation Centre
Home of Innovation
A Cross Section of DIG-it!
-it!
-
Xpose
1
Valorisation Centre
Home of Innovation
A Cross Section of DIG-it!
Table of Contents
4
Introduction
5
Technology Readiness levels, what is that?
6
About DIG-it!
7
Chapter 1 Basic to Early lab scale demonstration projects
9
Chapter 2 Late Lab scale to Early prototype projects
34
Chapter 3 Late prototype to Market ready applications
65
About the Valorisation Centre
83
Index by research theme
85
Introduction
The transfer and application of knowledge for the benefit of
society and the economy are becoming increasingly important to
the innovation policy of national and international governmental
bodies. Technical universities play a prominent role in this. TU
Delft regards it as its mission in society to deliver pioneering
technological/scientific solutions that have a significant impact in
helping to achieve sustainability and a healthy economy.
In the past few years, knowledge valorisation has developed into a full third core activity of
our university, besides education and research. Examples of valorisation activities, that will be
strengthened in the coming years, are entrepreneurial education and facilitating the start-up of new
businesses. Other activities are the collaboration with the business community in order to jointly
participate in large research consortia and to conduct authoritative contract research.
Special attention is being paid to improving TU Delft’s activities in the field of entrepreneurship such
as: The growing demand for entrepreneurial education, the YES!Delft incubator and the active support
in the field of intellectual property. ‘Entrepreneurship@TUDELFT’ forms the umbrella under which the
entrepreneurial activities will take shape. The TU Delft Holding, with its sub-holding Delft Enterprises,
plays an important facilitating role in this development.
In order to empower TU Delft scientists to more actively engage in valorisation activities the DIG-it!
programme was initiated at the end of 2013. Which the pro-active approach of xplore, xplain &
xpose the programme assists scientists with profiling their innovative research and/or products into
society.
11 November, 2014 the TU Delft organised an exclusive event: its first research exhibition at the
TU library. More than 80 innovative ideas from all across the university gathered through the DIGit! process presented themselves to the business community. The event demonstrated the enormous
innovation potential of the TU Delft. For the invited (inter) national companies, it was a unique
opportunity to get a taste of what’s cooking in TU Delft’s star cuisine kitchen. This booklet is a
compilation of the various poster presentations of that day to give you a flavour of TU Delft’s research.
Let it inspire you and be invited to directly interact with us or through your counterparts.
Sincerely,
Paul Althuis
Director of the Valorisation Centre
5
Technology Readiness Level,
what is that?
The projects you will find in this booklet are sorted by their respective self-chosen Technology
Readiness Level (TRL). A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology.
When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually
such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be
implemented.
Please find below the list of TRL’s we used to categorise the innovative ideas
we encountered with DIG-it!
1. Basic research
2. Proof of principle
3. Early lab scale demonstration
4. Late lab scale demonstration
5. Validation
6. Early prototype
7. Late prototype
8. Early stage commercial environment application
9. Market ready application
About DIG-it!
DIG-it! is the innovation stimulating and supporting initiative within the Delft University of Technology
coordinated by its Valorisation Centre. All year round we facilitate TU Delft scientists to make their
ideas more tangible and visible. With this support we aim to enhance collaboration with external
partners and its chance for successful implementation in the market or society.
Xplore, Xplain, Xpose
DIG-it! works according to the following three principles: Xplore, Xplain & Xpose. With a small team
we actively search within the faculties for the innovative ideas that are being developed. Thereby
we map the innovation-ecosystem. Subsequently, in collaboration with the scientist we look for the
most effective way for making their idea more tangible. The thought behind these principles is that by
translating their ideas into something more concrete scientist will be more able to share the idea with
his/her non-peer community. This allows for the creation of synergy at an early stage to develop the
ideas further.
Where does the name come from?
The initiative originates from the Delft Innovation Award. This award was created in 2009 to bring
attention to the most noteworthy innovations of the TU Delft and as a token of respect for the scientists.
At the end of 2013 the executive board decided to place this award in a broader framework
since working on innovative ideas is one of the University’s core business. What started as the Delft
Innovation Gallery the initiative soon changed its name into DIG-it! The process actively digs for ideas
and supports them in such a way that it is easier for others to understand them. The name DIG-it!
originates form the Gaelic “tigim”, meaning I understand and led to the phrase ‘Can you dig it’ which
means ‘I understand’, or ‘Wow! That is awesome’.
For more information about the presented projects please check
www.dig-it-xperience.nl
1
Basic to Early lab scale
demonstration projects
9
Design Vision for User-Centered Electronic
Payment for Public Transportation
Dr. ir. Japer van Kuijk
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
10
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
High Tech / Safety & Security
Basic research
Why?
Realising this Design Vision is expected to increase the number of users and frequency
of use. Furthermore, OV-chipkaart stakeholders save time and money on training,
marketing, and solving user problems.
How?
Through user-centered design innovation. First we analysed the users’ needs and
abilities, and then – based on that – appropriate business models and technologies
were identified.
When?
We created a Design Vision for the complete public transportation in 2019. If
realized, it makes public transport accessible to a wide audience, and a convenient
way to travel.
Hydraulic Impact of Overtopping
Waves on a Multifunctional Dike
Ir. Xuexue Chen | prof. Wim Uijttewaal
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Water & Maritime
Basic research
Why?
Predicting the wave load on a wall on a dike crest along the shorelines of low-lying
countries; Evaluating the safety status of a building on a dike.
How?
Conduct physical model tests and develop empirical formula for design purpose.
Meanwhile using test data to validate a numerical model.
When?
The project is expected to finish at the end of 2015. Help other projects within the
same program framework to do a feasibility study of design a multifunctional flood
defence.
11
Single-Molecule Protein Sequencer,
to Diagnose Diseases Protein Level
Jetty van Ginkel MSc | dr. Chirlmin Joo | dr. Anne S. Meyer
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Basic research
Why?
Current protein sequencing techniques require relative large amounts of sample and fail to
detect small protein populations. Our method will sequence single protein molecules, with
high sensitivity and dynamic range, bringing single cell proteomics within reach.
How?
This system uses a combination of a natural nanochannel and single-molecule
fluorescence to scan the sequence of a subset of amino acids of full length proteins.
Using existing proteomic databases, proteins can be identified from this sequence.
When?
12
Health
We will finish the lab scale demonstration in 2017, and place the first tabletop
prototypes by 2019. Our system will replace many current techniques for protein based
medical diagnostics and research. Also providing a powerful tool for personalised
medicine.
Self Healing in Steels with Added Gold
Dr.ir. Niels van Dijk | Shasha Zhang MSc | Prof.dr. Ekkes Brück
Prof.dr.ir. Sybrand van der Zwaag
Research theme
Materials
Technology Readiness Level
Basic research
Why?
Extending the lifetime of steel components under demanding high temperature
applications.
How?
Like biological systems, steels can also repair themselves. When a nanoscale crack
appears, mobile gold atoms move to the damage site to fill the crack and thereby
prevent failure.
When?
Currently we have a proof of principle. 10-15 years to translate this into products.
FNsteel SKF TATA steel
13
Green/Blue Infrastructure for Sustainable Attractive Cities
Prof. dr. ir. Arjan van Timmeren | Arch.Taneha Bacchin
Arch. Daniela Maiullari | Arch. Emanuele Paladin
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Basic research
Why?
The main objective is to develop knowledge and tools required to manage urban
stormwater that facilitate robust, synergistic and multi-functional green infrastructure
addressing future changes in dynamic urban areas.
How?
The project is conducted in an international Urban-Living-Lab in Kiruna, Sweden,
combined with national Urban-Living-Labs per participatory country, bringing together
citizens, practitioners, decision makers, researchers, to jointly develop innovative
solutions.
When?
The research will impact decisions being taken for future strategic and structural plans
of three municipalities (Kiruna-Sweden; Zwolle-Netherlands; and Insbruck-Austria)
additionally to scientific innovation on green-blue design processes.
Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck
14
Luleå University of Technology
Media Embodied Tekne and Bridges of
Diversity: METABODY
Dr. Nimish Biloria | Jia Rey Chang | Dieter Vandoren
Prof. Ir. Kas Oosterhuis | Veronika Laszlo
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Health / Robotics / ICT
Social impact / Delft Global
Basic research
Why?
METABODY aims to counter the growing trend of current media of reducing nonverbal interactions (93% of our expressions) to a highly reduced standardised set
gestures of interaction through conventional interfaces.
How?
METABODY will develop technologies, tools, techniques and devices that will be
integrated in the first fully interactive architectural pavilion, which will tour throughout
Europe. Architectural Robotics, Computational simulations, Sensors, actuators and
control systems, Human Psychology, Choreography, Computer Science and AI shall
be systematically synergised in order to attain this vision.
When?
The research which started in 2013 shall be producing novel physical prototypes
every year, with its final climax in 2017, resulting in the world’s first real-time interactive
pavilion structure. Such a space will seek to open perceptions, relations, movements
and behaviours up to indeterminacy, for a social ecology to come.
15
Cancer Causing Mutations in the Three
Dimensional Genome
Dr. ir. Jeroen de Ridder | Prof. dr. ir. M.J.T. Reinders | Sepideh Babaei MSc.
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Basic research
Why?
Our research uncovers which genes are affected by mutations in the DNA. For the first
time, we are considering the DNA as a three dimensional structure, rather than a linear
on. We can do this by exploiting so called chromatin conformation capture data. This
will contribute to an improved understanding on how cancer is caused.
How?
We are the Delft Bioinformatics Lab. We create algorithms that can find patterns in
large volumes of molecular data. In this project we have created an algorithm that can
integrate large collections of mutation data with 3D conformation data.
When?
16
Health
Our research is basic research, and aims to better understand what goes wrong in
the cell when mutations causes cancer. The knowledge gained from our algorithms is
indispensable for the development of new cancer therapeutics. Unfortunately, this will
be several years from now.
Zebrafish Swim into a New Light, High-Throughput,
High-Resolution, In-Vivo Imaging of Zebrafish
Dr. Jeroen Kalkman | J. van der Horst MSc. | A. K. Trull MSc.
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Health
High Tech / Safety & Security
Basic research
Why?
Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease is largely based on small animal
models, such as the zebrafish. Hence, there is a need for high-throughput, highresolution, in-vivo imaging of zebrafish.
How?
The researchers are building a new type of optical microscope with which highresolution, three-dimensional images can be made of the structure and function of the
zebra fish.
When?
The first novel microscope is currently build and needs some subsequent improvements.
Imaging of zebrafish starts in two to three years and clinical impact is expected
subsequently.
17
Worldviews & Global Issues
Dr. Annick Hedlund-de Witt | Prof. Patricia Osseweijer
Dr. Joop de Boer | Nick Hedlund-de Witt
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
Hedlund-de Witt explores worldviews—the fundamental lenses through which humans
see and filter reality—and their interface with global issues. For advancing the debates
around issues like climate change and biotechnology, understanding these lenses is
crucial.
Through both qualitative (interviews) and quantitative methods, including large-scale
surveys in the Netherlands, the USA, and Brazil, as well as literature studies.
In 2015 I hope to have created (the fundament for) a valid and reliable tool to quickly
and easily assess individuals worldviews, for purposes of, among others, policymaking and communication.
Institute of Education,
University of London
18
Environment & Climate
Social impact / Delft Global
Basic research
Proof of principle
Institute for Environmental Studies
User-Driven Distributed Pervasive Sensing
Dr. Andrea Simonetto
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
High Tech / Safety & Security / ICT
Proof of principle
Why?
Our algorithm senses the environment without the need for a central data collector. It
is tuned by the users and delivers the requested environmental information timely and
reliably.
How?
The algorithm is designed using the analytical tools of distributed convex optimisation.
Then, it will be embedded on real devices and tested on real environmental data.
When?
In less than 10 years, environmental information will available in any location, at any
time, and will be generated, aggregated, and processed by the user’s devices.
19
Artificial Photosynthesis using Metal Organic
Frameworks
Ir. Jara Garcia Santaclara | Dr. Monique Van der Veen
Ir. Mario Jose Muñoz Batista
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
20
Energy
Proof of principle
Solar-to-chemical energy conversion can be achieved by mimicking the natural
photosynthesis in plants by artificial materials. However, the efficiency of this process is
still too low for practical implementation.
Nanoporous 3-D metal structures linked by organic units (metal organic frameworks) will
be used as photocatalytic materials. By applying high-level spectroscopy, multi-electron
charge and proton transfer phenomena responsible for the photo-catalytic cycle will be
unraveled.
It’s expected that in 20 years we will have an actual device capable of produce
chemical fuels from solar energy.
Making Antibiotics with Laboratory Bacteria
Dr. Greg Bokinsky | Ms. Helena Shomar
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Health
Process Technology
Proof of principle
Why?
Engineered bacteria can be cheaper, cleaner, and more versatile platforms for
antibiotic production than existing methods.
How?
Our bacteria will tolerate the action of the antibiotics they produce, enabling
production to continue to high titers.
When?
After approximately six years of development, if successful, our process will
decrease antibiotic production costs, and in turn, lower medical costs worldwide.
21
iGEM, International Genetically Engineered
Machine: Using ELECTRACE to Detect Landmines
Dr. Anne Meyer | Ing. Esengul Yildirim
Dr. Dennis Claessen | team of 13 students
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
The goal of our project ELECTRACE, is to develop a microbial sensor, responding to
a signal by emitting an electrical output. In contrast to conventional outputs, Electrace
supports accurate and low effort measurements. This will reach the gap between
electronics and biology.
This microbial sensor is constructed by engineering the very basic and well known
bacteria - Escherichia coli. For detection we will make use of native Escherichia
coli promoters, which are activated in response to the aforementioned explosive
compounds.
Our device will be presented to a vast scientific community in Boston between 30
October -3rd of November 2014.
BE-BASIC
22
High Tech / Safety & Security
Social impact / Delft Global
Proof of principle
Delft Health Institute
EraSynBio
DSM
4D – EEG: a New Tool to Investigate the
Spatial and Temporal Activity Patterns in the Brain
Prof. dr. Frans van der Helm | Dr. Alfred Schouten
Dr. Yuan Yang | Dr. Teodoro Solis-Escalante
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Health
Robotics
Proof of principle
Why?
Patient-centered rehabilitation maximizes post-stroke functional recovery. Prognostic
models help adjusting rehabilitation strategies. 4D-EEG is a new tool for monitoring
dynamic cortical plasticity during stroke recovery with high temporal-spatial resolution.
How?
Robotic manipulators apply mechanical perturbations to the sensorimotor system. Highdensity electroencephalogram records electrical potentials from the scalp. Advanced
source localisation and system identification algorithms describe the underlying
neurophysiological system.
When?
We have developed methods for neuromuscular system identification, and are
improving source localisation algorithms. Results of an ongoing longitudinal study with
stroke patients will be available within three years.
Northwestern University University Medical Center Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
23
Mainstream Traffic Flow Control at Sags
Using Variable Speed Limits
Ir. Bernat Goñi Ros | Dr. Victor Knoop
Prof.dr.ir. Bart van Arem | Prof.dr.ir. Serge Hoogendoorn
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Proof of principle
Why?
Traffic congestion has negative impacts on the performance of freeway networks. In
hilly countries (such as Japan), sag vertical curves cause many traffic jams. We are
developing a traffic management concept aimed to reduce the severity of congestion
at that type of freeway bottlenecks.
How?
Variable speed limits are applied on a freeway section upstream of the sag vertical
curve, keeping the traffic inflow to the bottleneck below its capacity. Consequently,
traffic never becomes congested at the bottleneck. Traffic becomes congested on the
variable speed limit section, but that congestion is less severe than if it occurred on
the sag vertical curve.
When?
We carried out a proof of principle using microscopic traffic simulation in 2013.
Considering its potential benefits, we expect that this technology will be developed
further. Traffic management services based on this technology could be ready for
implementation in five years.
Toyota Motor Corporation
24
Optimisation of the Organisation of the
Maritime Value Chain using Simulation
Dr. ir. Jeroen Pruyn | Dr.ir. Jenny Coenen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
ICT
Water & Maritime
Proof of principle
Why?
Seamless integration of the supply chain is a must for shipbuilding, but which
concepts and approaches will best fit the needs of this diverse industry?
How?
Due to the recent implementations of lean and other principles in the Dutch
shipbuilding industry, much more data on shipyard processes has become available.
The same can be seen at suppliers and co-makers. Integration of this data will allow
simulations to test different forms of working together, optimising the construction
process.
When?
Unlike earlier research on integral cooperation, impact should be expected within the
next 5 years, as the work will support and facilitate discussions on this subject.
25
Inter Terminal Transport at the
Port of Rotterdam in 2030
Dr. Rudy Negenborn | Ir. Mark Duinkerken | Dr. Francesco Corman
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Proof of principle
Why?
Container volumes transported through the Port of Rotterdam are expected to increase
due to the construction of Maasvlakte 2. Performance and competitiveness will,
however, decrease without adequate measures due to intense congestion. Our research
proposes an innovative inter terminal transport system to prevent this from happening.
How?
We develop demand scenario generation, mixed-integer mathematical optimization,
and detailed discrete-event simulation techniques to determine what type and how
many transport vehicles for inter terminal transport are required. We propose intelligent
distributed control approaches for coordinating the operational actions of all vehicles,
aiming for optimal transport system performance.
When?
26
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Our research focuses on design of the inter terminal transport system of 2030. The
tools developed during the project can, however, already impact the port’s transport
systems design from as early as 2016.
Smart Support for Marketing
& Communication Processes
Dr. Maarten van der Sanden | Prof.dr. Catholijne Jonker
Dr. Wander Jager | Dr. Koen H. van Dam | Drs. Jeroen Stragier
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Energy
ICT
Social impact / Delft Global
Proof of principle
Early lab scale demonstration
Why?
Communication and marketing professionals take decisions on complex issues on a
daily basis. Smart Support makes those decisions more accountable.
How?
Testing and improving our proof of principle in co-creation with software developers
and communication and marketing professionals by design based research.
When?
Our research and resulting tools will have a direct impact on the professionalisation of
communication and marketing professionals which entails profound enhancement of
scenario thinking and thereby accountability.
27
HF Auto Human Factors of Automated Driving
Dr. Miltos Kyriakidis | Ms. Silvia Varotto, Mr. Christopher Cabrall
Mr. Zhenji Lu | Mr. Pavlo Bazilinskyy | Dr. Joost de Winter | Dr. Raymond Hoogen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
It will help to reduce road accidents, traffic jam, fuel emissions. It explores human
interaction with highly automated driving and the effects on traffic flow.
How?
Driving simulator experiments, eye tracking monitoring, control authority transition,
traffic flow modelling, human machine interface design, public acceptance
When?
28
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
High Tech / Safety & Security
Social impact / Delft Global
Basic research
Early lab scale demonstration
By 2020, many people believe that highly automated driving will be on the public
roads. This research will deliver a novel Human Machine Interaction to improve
driving conditions and safety while driving in automated mode and it will also
predict the effects on traffic flow.
Direct to Shape Printing with Robot
Prof. Jo Geraedts | Prof. Robert Babuska
Sunniva van Ipenburg | Marco de Giera
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics
ICT
Early lab scale demonstration
Why?
(3D) Printing on existing non-flat structures is not possible with existing commercial
printers.
How?
A novel method regarding printing with an industrial printhead mounted on a robot
arm instead of a XYZ Linear Translation Stages. The demo shows the realised step
from printing on flat surfaces to curved surfaces.
When?
Research must be the basis for an early prototype to show the added value of
printing on non-flat surfaces in 2 years.
29
Gaming at the Dentist’s, Serious Game
Design for Pain and Discomfort Distraction
Dr. ir. Rafael Bidarra | Rob Kooij
Research theme Health / ICT
Technology Readiness Level Early lab scale demonstration
Why?
Decrease patient discomfort caused by anxiety during dentist treatment by reducing their
perceived pain, while at the same time, improve regularity of dentist visits, and reduce
duration of critical treatments.
How?
By deploying virtual reality within an immersive game environment especially developed
for this purpose. Serious game design principles are carefully applied to create a
customised experience for this specific context.
When?
30
Achieving a more personalised and humane health care by reducing anxiety that saves
practitioners time and money.
Wearable Fall Prevention to Reduce Falls
Dr.-Ing. Heike Vallery | Daniel Lemus
Research theme
Health, Robotics
Social impact / Delft Global
Technology Readiness Level
Proof of principle
Early lab scale demonstration
Early prototype
Why?
Reducing falls is an urgent challenge in ageing societies, as falls are among the
most frequent causes of hospitalization and death among the elderly. A key factor
leading to falls is degraded balance control.
How?
We propose a minimalistic, backpack-like solution for balance assistance that
is based on a gyroscope assembly coupled to the upper body. By exploiting
the effect of several control moment gyroscopes (CMGs), the required support is
generated in the case of loss of balance. Here, we study technical feasibility of this
approach using a single CMG mounted on an inverted pendulum (IP).
When?
We expect to start first experiments with human subjects by the end of this year,
and with a small number of patients throughout 2015. We are also exploring
commercialisation opportunities of the system.
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
31
H-haptics:
Human-Centered Design of Haptic Interfaces
Dr.ir. David Abbink
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
Currently, the design of haptic interfaces (i.e., for driving, telerobotics, exoskeletons)
is by trial-and-error. A better understanding and incorporation of the human
controller is needed for a technological breakthrough.
Radically change human-machine interaction by developing next generation
collaborative robotic interfaces which are optimized to the user’s capabilities and
limitations using innovative models of the human controller.
H-Haptics projects range from basic research to an already-marketed application.
Industrial partners build the devices as demonstrators of state-of-the-art haptic
interfaces, supporting the notion that “feeling is believing”.
MOOG Netherlands
32
Robotics
High Tech / Safety & Security
Basic research
Early lab scale demonstration
Validation
Heemskerk Innovative Technology
“Intensive
collaboration with the
business community is
crucially important to
contribute to social needs
of society with the developed
products and services. Here at the
TU Delft we are committed to improve and
expand our cooperation with the business
community at the regional, international,
European and national levels”
Dirk-Jan van den Berg
President of the Executive Board, Technical University Delft
33
2
L ate Lab scale to Early
prototype projects
34
Bio-inspired Eye Movements with an Active
Binocular Vision Robot
Prof. dr. ir. Pieter Jonker | Kimberly Nancy McGuire BSc
Xin Wang MSc
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
Robotics
Early lab scale demonstration
Late lab scale demonstration
Our project will improve the visual processing and stabilization of an active vision
system meant for visual guided mobile robotics.
Taking inspiration on how the human eye system works from a neurological point of
view, not only to imitate its eye movements, but to implement its adaptive capabilities
as well.
Our system could have an impact on society by 2020, depending on its use. Visual
guided mobile robotics and existing image recording systems can benefit from this.
35
Efficient Low Peak Orthogonal Frequency
Division Multiplexing (hELP OFDM)
Mrs. Seyran Khademi | Prof. Alle-Jan van der Veen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
36
ICT
Early lab scale demonstration
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
OFDM waveform suffers from the unpredictable time domain signal (nonconstant envelope), which leads to non-efficient use of the electronic devises
and erroneous reception time to time.
How?
We developed an efficient signal processing algorithm that can be easily
implemented digitally to modify the undesired generated OFDM signal to
obtain more hardware-friendly (constant envelope) waveform.
When?
This is a ready-to- use algorithm that can be implemented digitally in basestations and how fast it can go to industry it depends on the promotion of
the this work.
Delft Social Sensing Lab, Managing Big
Urban Data for Analysing and Modelling Cities
Dr. Stefano Bocconi | Dr. Alessandro Bozzon | Dr. Birna van Riemsdijk
Achilleas Psyllidis | Christiaan Titos Bolivar
Research theme
ICT
Social impact / Delft Global
Technology Readiness Level
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
To solve urban problems is to improve quality of life. Our goal is to improve
the understanding of urban environment by enriching and interpreting big
urban data through social sensing.
How?
By integrating, enriching, and interpreting machine and human generated
data. Through big data analysis, simulations, and crowdsourcing we aim at
providing citizens, decision- and policy-makers with actionable knowledge.
When?
As a better urban knowledge leads to better actions, our research could have
an immediate societal impact. We are developing a set of prototype “City
Dashboards” for several European cities.
37
Galatea-Project A Bio-inspired Underwater Vehicle
ir. Tim Vercruyssen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
Dedicated underwater missions in complex and vulnerable underwater areas benefit
from a highly manoeuvrable, robust and efficient robot equipped with undulating fin
propulsion.
How?
Deriving basic performance principles from biomechanic research on seahorses and
cuttlefish and use them as an inspiration and functional requirements for state of the
art underwater robotics.
When?
38
Robotics
In a few years, swarms of underwater robots, will carry out stealthy inspection,
surveillance and research missions with a unprecedented spatial and temporal
resolution.
CNC Dynamic Mould for Producing
Freely Curved Glass Panels
Dr. Karel Vollers
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Climate & Environment,
Robotics & Process Technology
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
As yet, 3DC (=freely double curved) glass panel transforming on moulds CNC milled
from steel or ceramic materials, implies great waste in labour, material, energy,
logistics and time. Our CNC dynamic mould processing is based on 1 mould that
can infinitely be reconfigured.
How?
A flat glass panel will be positioned on an array of actuators (pins), which are
simultaneously activated to transform the panel in a heating process into the desired
3DC shape. We follow 3 parallel development trajectories: Actuators, CAD-CAM,
Transforming Technology.
When?
Dynamic Glass Mould marketing starts in 2016. The market for architectural large
freely curved glass panels will become enormous as most buildings need glass.
After demonstration as transforming tool for glass, we will apply the technology for
processing of other materials.
TUD-DEMO
Linak
Van Lagen Metaalbewerking
39
Zebro Swarm Robots
Dr. ir. Chris Verhoeven | dr. G.A.D. Lopes, | dr.ir.T.Keviczky
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
Swarms of dependable, simple fully autonomous rovers can form an omnipresent
virtually indestructible self-deploying sensor network in harsh environments (incl. the
Moon and Mars).
How?
Especially the optimisation of the swarm robots heavily relies on practical
experiments in the CyberZoo to extract the models and parameters needed for the
simulation of large swarms.
When?
40
Robotics / High Tech /
Safety & Security
Robot swarms will be excellently suited for surveillance tasks like finding drugs or
explosives, for which presently dogs are used, or for exploration of dangerous
areas, like collapsed buildings of caves on Mars.
The Next Step in the Smart Drone Revolution:
Swarm of Pocket Drones
Dr. Bart Remes | dr. Guido de Croon
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics
Late lab scale demonstration
Why?
Our research will allow the next step in the smart drone revolution: swarms
of pocket drones able to fly and explore completely by themselves.
How?
We develop computationally extremely efficient artificial intelligence for
pocket drones that fits on miniature electronic systems, such as a 4-gram
stereo vision system or 2-gram autopilot.
When?
Where now we all have a smart phone, in 5 years we will all also have a
pocket drone. Moreover, swarms of drones will then be integrated in your
daily live.
41
Novel Optical Hydrogen Detectors for the
Diagnosis of Lactose Intolerance
Dr. Peter Ngene | Prof. Bernard Dam | Dr. Ruud Westerwaal
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
42
Health / Materials
Late lab scale demonstration
Validation
Why?
This project aims to develop novel low cost sensors for diagnosis of lactose intolerance
via breath analysis. The device is able to undergo reversible change in its color when
in contact with exhaled breath of people suffering from lactose intolerance.
How?
The exhaled breath of lactose intolerance patients contain unusually high concentration
of hydrogen. The proposed device comprises yttrium thin film which is able to change
colour in the presence of hydrogen at concentrations relevant for the diagnosis of
lactose intolerance.
When?
The device has been successfully tested in the laboratory and presently undergoing
validation. The device will have huge impact on the society because it is much
cheaper and simpler to use than the state of the art device for diagnosis of this ailment.
The TU-Delft Nanosatellite programme
Dr. ir. Chris Verhoeven | Prof.dr.E.K.A.Gill | dr.J.Guo | ir.J.Bouwmeester
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics / ICT
Validation
Why?
To provide experimental evidence of the robustness of nanosatellites and nanosatellites
swarms in space. Nanosatellite swarms will enable real-time global earth observation
systems and large area scientific instruments like OLFAR, a LF radio telescope based
on a swarm of nanosatellites in moon orbit.
How?
The research focuses on the realisation of highly miniaturised space systems based on
modern main stream technologies, validate them in space by pursuing a regular launch
scheme.
When?
The research has led to the startup of already 3 and added new business
opportunities in the space industry for several other companies and is as such already
a considerable impact on the market and society. The TU Delft satellites Delfi-C3
(launched in 2008) and Delfi-n3Xt (2013) have had a large impact on both research
and education.
43
Scalable Nanostructured Powders Production
by Atomic Layer Deposition
Dr.ir. J. Ruud van Ommen | Ir. Aris Goulas
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
44
Process Technology
Materials
Validation
Why?
Engineered nanostructured powders/particles production relies on wet-chemistry.
Manufacturing often lacks rationality and is associated with large liquid waste streams.
We apply a gas-phase nanostructuring technique that is rational, scalable and
minimizes waste production.
How?
Our process is efficient (precursor materials usage), versatile (different nanostructuring
possibilities), doesn’t use solvents and utilizes scalable reactor technology. Different
product configurations with precisely-controlled nanofeatures can be made.
When?
We are working with industrial partners to validate the performance of our materials
and process. Developments in the energy/chemicals/pharma sectors will drive
engineered nanostructured powders demand to a tonne-scale in the near future.
Prêt-à-Loger; Improve your House
Preserve your Home
Josien Kruizinga (Technical Manager) | Andy van de Dobbelsteen
Craig Martin (Faculty Advisors)
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Energy
Social impact / Delft Global
Early prototype
Why?
Our research presents a solution for the existing 1.4 million row houses in the
Netherlands, which have poor energy ratings, lack space, and suffer from moisture and
lighting problems.
How?
We made case study in the city of Honselersdijk, where the typical dutch row houses
are present. From there, we made a working prototype of the solution (the skin).
When?
Prêt-à-Loger facilitates the transition phase of sustainable society, targeting larger
amount of houses to achieve 80% neutralization while keeping an eye on the option of
becoming 100% sustainable. We expect to have impact on society within 1-2 years.
45
PHENICX: Towards Enriched Classical
Concert Experiences
Cynthia Liem MSc MMus | Alessio Bazzica MEng | Prof. dr. Alan Hanjalic
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Early prototype
Why?
The PHENICX project creates new digital experiences for (live) classical music
performances. In doing this, it strives to preserve a Western cultural heritage asset,
and find new audiences for it.
How?
In many fields, ranging from multimodal signal processing to visualization, stateof-the-art techniques are deployed and advanced upon. Their utility and validity is
continuously monitored through active involvement of potential end-users.
When?
The research already impacts current user-facing apps, such as the RCO Editions
magazine. It shows novel functionality opportunities, and the user studies guarantee
systematic validity testing of these.
O F A I
46
ICT
Smart Fixed Wings using Shape
Memory Alloys
Adrián Lara-Quintanilla MSc. | Ir. Freek Sluis
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate / Energy /
Materials
Early prototype
Why?
Wings of conventional aircrafts have a fixed geometry. Smart Fixed-Wings
can continuously adapt to the current flight conditions.
How?
By means of a kind of smart materials called Shape Memory Alloys which
are able to change and maintain different shapes.
When?
It is still in design and early testing phase. If it shows a good performance
and it is safe, it could be implemented on several years.
CleanSky
47
Robot Eva
Bram van der Veen, BSc. | Dr.ir. Joost Broekens
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Early prototype
Why?
The Robot Eva project revolves around researching the interaction between a
service robot and people with the aim of gaining the knowledge required for
the development of service robots that can be used in the care sector. Currently,
the investigation is looking towards how a non autonomous robot can be best
controlled for Wizard of Oz studies.
How?
Eva will be tested at a homecare facility using semi-autonomous and semicontrolled movements in a Wizard of Oz setting.
When?
48
Health / Robotics
We expect that the results will immediately aid in the development of socially
affective service robots that can help in reducing the pressure on the currently
strained care sector.
Electricity from Kite Power
Dr. Roland Schmehl | Dr. Axelle Viré | Uwe Fechner MSc
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Energy / Robotics
Early lab scale demonstration
Why?
Kite Power aims at energy generation at a lower cost, material usage and
environmental impact than achievable by conventional, tower based wind
turbines.
How?
Within a one year timeline Kite Power 2.0 builds an improved 32kW
demonstrator for 24 hour continuous operation. Modeling and simulation will be
employed to improve automatic control and increase speed and efficiency of
development cycles.
When?
Commercial development of the technology will start in Q3 of 2015, first with
a focus on small­scale (~50 kW) generation, then moving to large­scale (MW)
systems. The first generation of commercial small­scale systems should be on the
market in 2018.
49
Wind Turbines on a Flood Defence Combining Technical and Governance Aspects
dr. Paul Hölscher | dr. Baukje Kothuis
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Water & Maritime
Social impact / Delft Global
Early prototype
Why?
Wind turbines on flood defences are economically beneficial. Consequences of
such large structures for safety are unknown. Complex multi-actor context creates
governance and development problems for water boards and private parties.
How?
Technical aspect: Numerical and theoretical evaluation of consequences of wind
turbines for the well-known failure mechanisms. Governance aspect: Evaluation
of incentives, barriers and interactions in development processes by applying
anthropological methodologies.
When?
The technical research should lead to the knowledge that is needed to introduce this
aspect in existing regulations. The governance aspect should lead to improvement
of development processes in similar oncoming projects.
Integral & sustainable
design of
Multi functional flood defences
50
Adaptivity and Robustness of
Multi-functional Flood Defence
Dr. Tushith Islam
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
ICT
Early prototype
Evaluating flexibility of available options for flood defence infrastructure
(extendable to other fields ) to address and accommodate uncertainties.
The computational method will be used to analyse existing flood defence
strategies.
Within the next two years, the core algorithms will be available for
scientific use.
Integral & sustainable
design of
Multi functional flood defences
51
Economy of Chain Integration
Dr. Telli van der Lei | Gerben Bas
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Early prototype
Why?
The process industry is predominantly characterised by economies of scale. With
energy and transportation costs rising this business model becomes unsustainable.
How?
Local production networks of modular factories in containers have a small
environmental footprint and are agile. Their economic viability depends on their
location and the market they serve. A simulation model been developed to explore
the viability of these networks.
When?
52
Energy
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Process Technology
Because the model is dynamic and capable of simulating market responses the
predictive power of the model is higher than current models used within industry.
Uncertainty regarding investment decisions is significantly reduced.
CrackGuard, Methodology for Monitoring
Crack Growth in Steel Structures
Ir. Menno van der Horst | Prof. dr. ir. Mirek Kaminski | ing. Erik Puik
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
High Tech / Safety & Security
Water & Maritime
Early prototype
Why?
My research will improve safety and lower inspection costs of offshore and maritime
steel structures by offering a solution to monitor detected fatigue cracks.
How?
Prototype design, numerical simulations and experimental research will be done to
make the CrackGuard system as reliable, robust and affordable as possible.
When?
By the end of my PhD research in 2018, the CrackGuard system should be a product
that is market ready and classified by several class societies in the maritime industry.
53
Leah, Delft Personal Robot for the
Service Industry
Dr. ing. Maja Rudinac | Prof. dr. ir. Pieter Jonker | Ir. Floris Gaisser
ir. Aswin Chandaar | ing. Machiel Bruinink
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
54
Robotics
Early prototype
Why?
To help elderly people living alone to solve everyday tasks of daily living.
How?
Using set of computer vision and control algorithms the robot can autonomously
navigate in its environment, manipulate objects and interact with humans.
When?
With the company robot care systems we are market ready version that will be
available in two years.
Pocket negotiator: Intelligent Negotiation
Support for all negotiation Phases
Prof. dr. Catholijn Jonker | Dr. ir. Joost Broekens | Dr. Reyhan Aydogan
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
ICT
Social Impact/Delft Global
Early prototype
Why?
The Pocket Negotiator supports people in their negotiations by structuring the
negotiation process and helping to proposal good bids. One-to-one or multi-party,
we have technology for all.
How?
We are now working on business models, then we will create the market ready
application. We have two interested parties for two different business models, you
could join!
When?
The transition of prototype to market ready application could be within a year from
now. Impact could be on a specific market, e.g., real estate, B2B, B2C (e.g.,
conflict resolution).
Almende B.V.
Nederlands Instituut voor Onderhandelen
Paction
55
New Technologies as Social Experiments:
Conditions for Morally Responsible
Experimentation
Prof. dr. ir. Ibo van de Poel | Dr. Neelke Doorn | Dr. Behnam Taebi
Dr. Lotte Asveld | Jan Bergen | Zoë Robaey | Shannon Spruit
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
56
Social impact / Delft Global
Early prototype
Why?
Introducing technologies in society, such as nanotechnology, biotechnology or
nuclear energy, comes with unknowns. We develop an ethical framework based
on the notion of experimentations to deal with that uncertainty.
How?
We conceptualise the introduction of technology in society as a social experiment
and explore the conditions rendering it morally acceptable.
When?
The ethical framework “New Technologies as Social experiments” is being
conceptually developed for different technological fields. Next, we will adapt it to
policy and industrial contexts with relevant partners.
Large-Scale Environmental-Data
Visualisation
Prof. Dr. Elmar Eisemann | Dr. Bert Buchholz
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
Environment & Climate
Water & Maritime
Early prototype
Climate changes pose a threat to many regions in the world, among
them the Netherlands due to its low elevation. Understanding such
developments and their consequences is crucial in order to act sensibly on them. For
this reason, large-scale data capture and interpretation is necessary.
Captured data is complex and difficult to visualize in its entirety.
Especially, heterogeneous sensor networks (comprised of weather
stations, social media, mobile phones etc.) provide a wealth of
different data types and formats. We aim at using visualisation to render this
otherwise complex information understandable.
When?
Currently, there are 14 weather stations in the Rotterdam area that
measure a number of different environmental factors. In addition, we
were already able to use social media to correlate messages with larger
weather events like rain storms allowing to extract highly localized information.
57
Reinvent the Toilet: Water Diverting Toilet &
Community Sanitation Centers
Dr. Jan Carel Diehl | Dr. Johan Molenbroek | Gerwin Jansen
Anne Jansen | Miguel Melgarejo
Research theme Health
Social impact / Delft Global
Technology Readiness Level Early prototype
Why?
The need for better sanitation in the developing world is clear. 2.5 billion people
practice open defecation or lack adequate sanitation facilities, and the consequences
can be devastating for human health as well as the environment.
How?
By employing multidisciplinary as well human centered design approaches a water
diverting toilet and community sanitation centers have been developed which meet
the needs and aspirations of inhabitants of urban informal settlements.
When?
Early prototypes have been tested in informal settlements in India. As a follow up the
further development and implementation is being explored in collaboration with India
commercial partners, NGO’s and academic institutions.
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
58
3D Photography Reflectance Transformation
Imaging Dome
Ir. Tim Zaman
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics
Early prototype
Why?
3D RTI Images taken with our system can be used for quick high resolution 3D
scanning; for example quick quality analysis and digitisation of objects.
How?
Our 3D RTI Dome allows us to relight photo’s after they are taken, and allows us to
construct a 3D image and model the surface reflectance. We do so by computing
image’s appearance as a function of the position of the light on the object.
When?
Our method will allow rapid capture in 3D, that can be used for shape, material or
quality analysis. Such RTI images are easy to publish on-line and allow relighting of
objects. We intend to use it to scan the entire numismatic collection of the Federal
Reserve in the USA.
59
SketchaWorld: Easy-to-use Tool for Modelling
your 3D Virtual Worlds
Dr.ir. Rafael Bidarra | Dr.ir. Ruben M. Smelik
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Early prototype
Why?
Intuitive and easy to use methodology for modelling 3D virtual worlds for games
and training applications in a matter of minutes instead of days.
How?
SketchaWorld seamlessly integrates a variety procedural methods, in order to
enable artists and designers to focus on what they want to create, instead of on
how they should model it.
When?
60
ICT
By applying those techniques to do the tedious work for you, this methodology can
stimulate people’s creativity, and has the potential to make virtual world creation
available to the masses.
3D Scanning and Reproduction of Paintings
Ir. Tim Zaman | Ir. W. Elkhuizen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics
Early prototype
Why?
We want to be able to make the ultimate reproduction of paintings, in order to be
able to fully understand them and conserve their exact appearance.
How?
A hybrid system with cameras, a projector and automated translation stages allow us
to scan the planar surfaces with a very high resolution in full colour. 3D Printing then
allows us to make near undistinguishable reproductions.
When?
By exactly modelling the appearance of a painting, we learn exactly what makes a
painting look the way it does, and we learn how the original master has done this.
This allows us to make 3D printed reproductions that gives rise to the question: if we
can make an undistinguishable reproduction, what is the value of the original?
61
Neutron In-Beam Mössbauer Spectroscopy Investigating Industrial Materials/Catalysts
under Authentic Working Conditions
Dr. Achim Iulian Dugulan | Ir. Michel Steenvoorden
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Early prototype
Why?
In chemistry and solid state physics, Mössbauer spectroscopy is commonly used as an
analytic tool that provides valuable information on the electronic structure of chemical
compounds. The Mössbauer effect was observed on 82 isotopes of 44 elements, but
only a few of them are used in practice.
How?
In this project, the number of usable Mössbauer nuclei will be increased by producing
them in-beam. Neutron capture prompt-gamma nuclei for in-beam excitation like
157Gd, 155Gd, 167Er, 161Dy, 177Hf, 163Dy, 179Hf, 171Yb, 154Gd, 173Yb,
160Dy, 182W, 56Fe, 66Zn and 39K will be produced.
When?
62
Energy / Materials
The measurements on the neutron in-beam Mössbauer spectroscopy instrument are
expected to start in 2016. The intended research and development of improved
catalysts could have a substantial impact on the economics and sustainability of
products in many sectors of industry in the Netherlands.
Grab the Future - Virtual Prototyping
Using Particle Based Simulation
ir. Stef W. Lommen | Dr. ir. Dingena Schott | Prof.dr.ir. Gabriel Lodewijks
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Process Technology
Early prototype
Why?
Grabs are a type of handling equipment for dry bulk such as coal or iron ore.
Development of grabs is conservative as the particular nature of dry bulk material
hinders an accurate continuous description of the material and grab behaviour during
operation. Virtual evaluation of prototypes can shorten the time to market and reduce
the development costs greatly.
How?
The project has created a validated virtual environment for simulating the interaction
between particles and equipment by Discrete Element Method and Multi Body
Dynamics. The simulation has been validated through lab-scale and full-scale industrial
experiments of existing grabs.
When?
By now the model has been validated and is ready to be used to develop the grab of
the future. It provides insight into the working principles of equipment from a particulate
material perspective. This helps to improve any process that involves handling and
processing of powders and granular materials.
63
3
Late prototype to Market
ready applications
65
Bio-Inspired Medical Technology
Prof.dr.ir. Paul Breedveld | All people within the BITE research group
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
66
Health
High Tech / Safety & Security
Early prototype to Market ready
application
Why?
Inspired by muscular hydrostatic skeleton systems in squid tentacles a range of
steerable medical instruments have been developed for nearly all applications of
minimally invasive surgery, e.g. laparoscopy, neurosurgery, eye surgery and catheter
interventions. Our novel prototypes feature world’s thinnest and most manoeuvrable
steerable constructions.
How?
For medical input we collaborate with medical specialists (AMC, LUMC, Erasmus MC,
UMCU), and for biological input we collaborate with the University of Wageningen.
Our researchers and instrument makers collaborate closely in a team, using a new
design methodology that strongly stimulates creative design processes.
When?
Worldwide, our research group BITE is on the forefront. Commercialisation is being
carried out by spin-off company DEAM in collaboration with the medical industry. The
surgical instrumentation market is very complex and the “when” depends on many
factors. But I expect that our inventions will revolutionise minimally invasive surgery and
enable complex operations that can not yet be carried out.
Nuon Solar Team
Bianca Koppen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
How?
When?
Environment & Climate / Energy
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Late prototype
To show the world what is possible with solar energy and the latest technologies.
With a team of 16 persons we spend 1,5 years building a solar car, with several
disciplines each focussing on a different aspect of the car.
Next year October we will start the race in Australia and hopefully win it again!
67
Structural evaluation of multifunctional
flood defences
Ing. M.Z. Voorendt
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Water & Martime
Late Prototype
Why?
The present guidelines for the design and assessment of flood defences are not suitable
for multifunctional flood defences.
How?
A generic method will be developed for the evaluation of a-typical flood defences. This
method is based on a distinction of structural parts regarding their structural function.
When?
After publication of the dissertation the method will be available for application in the
design and assessment practice.
Integral & sustainable
design of
Multi functional flood defences
68
Terahertz Silicon-Integrated CAMera for
Low-Cost Imaging Applications
Prof. Andrea Neto | Dr. M Spirito | Dr. N. Llombart | Dr. Daniele Cavallo
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
High Tech / Safety & Security
Late Prototype
Why?
Terahertz cameras can provide improved capabilities in sensing and security
applications. However, such devices are currently limited by their large size/cost and
their low sensitivity. We propose solutions for realising integrated terahertz cameras
with radically enhanced sensitivity.
How?
To improve the sensitivity of terahertz cameras, we will employ novel wideband highgain antenna concepts, combined with high-sensitivity detectors based on state-of-the-art
CMOS and BiCMOS technologies. An integrated 1K pixel camera in a silicon-based
technology will be developed.
When?
At the end of the two-year project, the technology will be transferred to the industrial
partners for developing future systems for commercial applications. THz sensing will
play an important role in electronics research and development for the next decades.
69
DORA Digital Operating Room Assistant
Dr. John van den Dobbelsteen | Prof.dr. Jenny Dankelman | Dr.ir. Linda Wauben
ir. Annetje Guedon | Drs. Frédérique Meeuwsen
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Late prototype
Why?
DORA will prevent disruptions of the workflow of operative processes and thereby
improve patient safety and efficiency in the entire care pathway.
How?
DORA monitors events related to patients, personnel, equipment and instruments
and uses pattern analysis to discover deviations from protocol and to identify
possible risks for patient safety.
When?
The ability to monitor the processes in real-time will have a direct effect on the
efficiency of the care pathway and reduce costs. Implemented the knowledge of
DORA will grow automatically and incrementally improve patient safety.
Reinier de Graaf
Hospital
70
Health
Leiden University
Medical Center
Eye Hospital
Rotterdam
SATA, Shaft Actuated Tip Articulation
in an Arthroscopic Punch
Dr.ir. Tim Horeman | Dr.ir. Gabrielle Tuijthof | Prof.dr.Gino Kerkhoffs (MD)
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Health
High Tech / Safety & Security
Late prototype
Why?
Repairing menisci lesions is challenging when the tear is located in a difficult to reach
location. Using the current cutting tools that cannot steer multiple instrument exchanges
are required, which leads to frustration, longer operation time, high tissue stress on
cartilage and portals and therefore potential tissue damage and hand pain.
How?
Our Steerable Punch offers the needed extra reachability in knee joints, and prevents
the use of multiple cutting tools. This is achieved by a new patented stiff articulating
shaft mechanism (SATA), which allows the tip to be positioned at all possible angles
between 55 and -55 degrees and simultaneously allows for precision cutting of tough
tissues within one single instrument.
When?
As soon as the first SATA punch comes available in 2016. This new punch reduces
the number of instrument changes (one punch is needed) and reduces the risk on tissue
damage.
71
Fast DNA Analysis for Cancer Diagnosis
Using FPGA-based Technology
Dr. Zaid Al-Ars | Dr. Koen Bertels | Dr. Vlad Sima
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Late Prototype
Why?
DNA analysis is a slow and expensive process, limiting its utilization in disease
diagnosis such as cancer. We design specialized computer hardware to substantially
increase the speed of the analysis.
How?
There are standard algorithms used to diagnose cancer using DNA. We design
circuits that can solve these algorithms directly in hardware much more efficiently than
on a general purpose computer.
When?
72
Health / ICT
We have an algorithm already running in the field with 10x speedup. A second
algorithm is a prototype running 1.5x faster, and to be ready for commercialization by
November.
Survival of the Fattest; Using Algea
for Biofuel Production
ir. Peter Mooij | dr. ir. Robbert Kleerebezem | prof. dr. ir. Mark van Loosdrecht
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Energy
Late prototype
Why?
We’ll make the production of microalgal starch and lipids, which can be used to
produce biofuels, cheaper.
How?
By using nature’s diversity in a smart way, we can guarantee stable production in
cheap cultivation systems.
When?
Currently, the first pilot-scale tests are performed. The technology will be ready for
further scaling up in 1-2 years.
73
Hygienic Train Toilet
Dr. ir. Johan Molenbroek | Prof. ir. Daan van Eijk | ir. Marian Loth
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
Enhancing train toilet hygiene, so that travelling by train becomes more attractive, or
specifically that the train traveller will rate the train toilet as sufficient.
How?
The ‘research through’ design of the train toilet is based on approximately 230
observations of users and questionnaires completed by about 1500 train travellers.
When?
74
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
Health
Late prototype
Commercial application
At the end of 2015 or beginning of 2016 both the PhD Thesis Defense as well as the
key elements of the design proposal with specifications in the modernization of the
double decker trains (Virm) will take place.
Trans-African Hydro-Meteorological
Observatory
Prof. dr. ir. Nick van de Giesen | Dr. ir Rolf Hut | Ir. Martine Rutten
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate / ICT
Early stage commercial environment
application
Why?
Africa is very poorly monitored when it comes to water and climate. Yet, to develop
the continent’s agriculture and resources, such data are essential. TAHMO will build
a network of 20,000 robust and cost effective weather stations to turn this situation
around.
How?
The TAHMO network will mainly be roled out through schools, thereby enhancing
the water & climate curriculum. Data will be freely available for non-commercial use.
Commercial use will pay for the upkeep of the network.
When?
Two pilots, one in Ghana and one in Kenya, will start this year. The Kenyan pilot aims
at providing data for micro-crop insurance. The Ghanaian project aims at improving
weather forecasts and providing farmers with weather related information.
75
Robot Operating System Industrial, Open Source Cross-Platform
Dr. Martijn Wisse | ir. Gijs van der Hoorn
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Why?
ROS-Industrial is a software platform that allows (inter)connection of all types and
brands of robots and other intelligent machines. It will greatly improve the accessibility
of robot technology gains of robotics.
How?
A worldwide network of developers works together to translate high-level research
results, such as smart 3D camera software, into plug-and-play software components.
When?
76
Robotics
ICT
Early stage commercial environment
application
ROS-Industrial is already operational, and many more features and capabilities will be
added in the next few years.
Factory-in-a-Day - Fast Installation to Make
Robotics Affordable for Small Companies
Dr. Martijn Wisse | Prof. dr. ir. Jo Geraedts | ir. J. C. Verlinden
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Robotics
Early stage commercial environment
application
Why?
Factory-in-a-Day will bring industrial robots within reach of medium and small
companies.
How?
The key bottleneck, installation time (and cost), is drastically reduced by combining
rapid manufacturing techniques with smart software. Think of it as ‘apps’ for various
robot tasks.
When?
The first small/medium companies are being served right now. By the end of the
project (2017), a significant number of companies will enjoy the productivity gains
of robotics.
77
Haptic Shared Control for Driver Assistance
Dr. ir. David Abbink | Dr. ir. Mark Mulder | Dr. ir. Erwin Boer
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
High Tech / Safety & Security
Proof of principle
Market ready application
Why?
Communication and interaction between drivers and intelligent vehicles is crucial for
the further introduction of automation. We use haptics as a basis for novel interfaces
to control such vehicles.
How?
We conduct human-in-the-loop experiments in driving simulators to identify driver
behavior, and design and evaluate novel interaction interfaces based on force
feedback and haptic guidance.
When?
Our research has resulted in successful marketing of the haptic gas pedal (Distance
Control Assist). Our patents will also help marketing lateral assist systems in the
coming five years.
Nissan Motor Company, Ltd.
78
Mathematical Modeling of Industrial
Furnaces for Cement Production
Dr. Domenico Lahaye | Ir. Michele Pisaroni | Ir. Rudy Sadi
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
High Tech / Safety & Security Materials
Market ready application
Why?
Producing cement requires high temperatures. Operating the furnaces used in the
process is typically based upon a trial and error process. We instead developed a
mathematical model that allowed to identify the optimal temperature and to substantially
increase the profit margins.
How?
The developed mathematical model proved valuable in two ways.
1) it allowed to locate too high temperature regions in the oven.
2) it allowed to validate changes in the operating conditions that reduce peak
temperature.
When?
The proposed operating condition changes have been tested in the field in August
2011. Since, the furnaces has been operating without unscheduled shut-downs,
resulting in hugely important cost savings. The method of mathematical modelling can
also be applied to other industrial processes.
A L M AT I S
79
GeoBee, Outcrop Analogue
Modelling in Fieldworks
Ir. Kevin Bisdom | Prof.Dr. Giovanni Bertotti | Dr. Nico Hardebol
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Market ready application
Why?
Collecting accurate geological datasets has long been a challenge for geoscientists.
Several ‘Digital Outcrop Modelling’ methods exist, but their flexibility is limited. The
GeoBee provides both accuracy and flexibility.
How?
The GeoBee workflow applies existing commercial tools (a high-end drone and
photogrammetry techniques) with our in-house digitisation tools to create accurate
geological datasets for input in geomechanical and fluid flow models.
When?
80
Energy
The GeoBee has been used in two projects, and the resulting datasets and models
are providing both academic output (publications) as well as improved geological
models for the Oil and Gas industry.
Earth, Wind & Fire Natural Air Conditioning
Dr. Ing. Benjamin Bronsema | Dr. Ir. Wim van der Spoel
Dr. Regina Bokel
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Energy
Market ready application
Why?
Natural air conditioning improves the indoor environment, decreases the energy use
of buildings and bridges the gap between architecture and technology.
How?
Buildings will be designed as “climate machines” using the ambient energy of the
earth mass, the wind and the sun, eliminating the need for mechanical systems.
When?
The Earth, Wind & Fire concept will be applied in a newly to be build hotel in
Amsterdam, worlds first zero energy hotel.
Dutch Green Company Eindhoven University of Technology
81
Mechanical Recycling of End Of Life (EOL)
Concrete into High-Grade Aggregates
Somayeh Lotfi | Prof. Peter Rem
Research theme
Technology Readiness Level
Environment & Climate
Materials
Market ready application
Why?
Increasing amount of concrete waste, lack of dumping places, saving natural
resources and reducing CO2 emissions, are the main driving forces for finding a
sustainable and economic way for concrete recycling.
How?
The C2CA project aims at an innovative, cost-effective and environmental friendly
approach for in situ recycling of high-volume end of life concrete streams into primegrade aggregates and cement.
When?
The feasibility of this recycling process was examined in a demonstration project
involving 20,000 tons of EOL concrete. Results show that the +4 mm recycled
aggregate compares favourably with natural aggregate.
Strukton - Heidelberg Cement - Holcim - Theo Pouw - DV - Laser 2000 - Inashco R&D
82
About the Valorisation Centre
Successful innovation not only calls for in-depth knowledge and cutting-edge creativity, but constructive
partnership is just as essential. To transform technological innovations into practical added-value
applications for society, we need assistance from external partners. By cooperating with business,
government and civil society organisations or directly via individuals, we can make our knowledge
work to the benefit of wider society.
By commercialising academic research, the University wants to contribute to sustainable and
innovative solutions to social problems. The university adds value to society by making its knowledge
available for commercial purposes, or conducting research commissioned by companies or
international institutions. Scientists from the TU Delft work together with specialists from all over the
world to create break-through solutions with an impact on society. The success of Technology Transfer
therefore highly relies on the effort our academic employees make.
The Valorisation Centre is a good place to start to start doing business with the TU Delft and there are
different ways in which this can take shape: Patent portfolio, Business relations & Contract research.
Linked to this TU Delft has its own participation holding called Delft Enterprises.
Patent portfolio
TU Delft has an interesting patent portfolio but a patent is only the beginning. A beginning
that may lead to a profitable business or a successful venture or license agreement.
For more information:
www.tudelft.nl/en/business/tu-delft-patent-portfolio
T +31 (0) 15 278 4859
[email protected]
Start-ups and spinouts
Delft Enterprises is the one stop shop for entrepreneurship and spin out companies of the
Delft University of Technology.
For more information:
www.delftenterprises.nl/en
T +31 (0) 15 278 2122
[email protected]
83
Business Relations
The TU Delft can be an interesting business partner. There are various clusters on which we
intensively collaborate with business, such as clean tech, medical technologies, high tech
systems, nano technologies, energy and infrastructure & mobility.
For more information:
www.tudelft.nl/en/business/contact
Antal Baggerman
T +31 (0) 15 278 6973
[email protected]
Contract research
The TU Delft participates with various companies and organisations in large-scale research
projects.
For more information:
www.tudelft.nl/en/business/research-projects
Margo Strijbosch (NL Research funding)
+31 (0) 15 278 3917
[email protected]
Servaas Duterloo (EU Research funding)
T +31 (0) 15 278 3758
[email protected]
General information about the Valorisation Centre:
www.business.tudelft.nl
Mekelweg 4
2628CD, Delft, the Netherlands
[email protected]
More information about DIG-it!
Susanne Sleenhoff
Project manager
T +31 (0)15 278 83078
www.tudelft.nl/dig-it
[email protected]
84
Index by research theme
Energy projects
See pages: 20, 27, 45, 47, 49, 52, 62, 67, 73, 80 & 81
Environment & Climate
See pages: 14, 18, 21, 39, 45, 47, 57, 67, 73, 75, 81 & 82
Health
See pages: 12, 15, 16, 17, 21, 23, 30, 31, 42, 48, 58, 66, 70, 71, 72 & 74
High Tech / Safety & Security
See pages: 10, 17, 19, 22, 28, 32, 40, 53, 66, 69, 71, 78, 79
ICT
See pages: 15, 19, 25, 27, 29, 30, 36, 37, 43, 46, 51, 55, 60, 72, 75 & 76
Infrastructure & Mobility / Transport
See pages: 10, 11, 24, 26, 28, 51, 52, 63, 67, 74 & 78
Materials
See pages: 13, 42, 44, 47, 79 & 82
Process Technology
See pages: 21, 39, 44, 52 & 63
Robotics
See pages: 15, 23, 29, 31, 32, 35, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 48, 49, 54, 59, 61, 76 & 77
Social impact
See pages: 15, 18, 22, 27, 28, 37, 45, 50, 55, 56 & 58
Water & Maritime
See pages: 11, 25, 50, 53, 57 & 68
85
-it!
-
Xpose
Colophon
Production: Valorisation Centre TU Delft – DIG-it!
Text and Editing: Paul Althuis, Susanne Sleenhoff, Malou Spruit
Cartoons: Total Shot productions - Stephan Timmers
Layout: Liesbeth van Dam
Print: Vanderheym
© January 2015
DIG-it! is the innovation stimulating and supporting initiative
within the Delft University of Technology coordinated by
its Valorisation Centre. All year round we facilitate TU Delft
scientists to make their ideas more tangible and visible. With
this support we aim to enhance collaboration with external
partners and its chance for successful implementation in the
market or society. This booklet presents a first cross section of
projects that have been supported by the DIG-it! initiative.
www.business.tudelft.nl