Can we train and improve complex decision-making using serious gaming? What is the learning effect of training pilots using virtual reality? How do we effectively design AR and VR training modules? How can we develop and use intelligent tutoring systems? These questions are relevant for a range of research domains and application areas, including serious games and logistics, virtual reality for air force simulations, virtual and augmented reality for production and maintenance, predictive analytics for evidence-based prevention, and virtual reality solutions for education. A large project led by Tilburg University funded by the Dutch government consists of five innovative research projects, aiming to develop breakthroughs with interactive AI technologies. The project is funded to stimulate regional ecosystems to develop a resilient, sustainable, and future-proof economy with a central role for SME’s.
Scientific impact
The five subprojects operate in the scientific research domains of neurophysiology, experimental psychology, data science, artificial intelligence, computational linguistics, and cognitive science. For instance, a series of experiments are conducted to predict pilot behavior in simulations using brain imaging, eye tracking and galvanic skin response techniques; decision making is synchronized when participants are operating in serious games; data science algorithms are developed to predict user behavior in order to prevent hazardous behavior; techniques are developed so that training simulations can be adapted on the basis of online user behavior; AI technologies are applied to generate realistic nonverbal behavior.
Societal impact
The project consists of national (and internationally oriented) partners, such as Interpolis Marel, Actemium, Port of Rotterdam, Royal Netherlands Airforce, WPG Zwijsen, SpaceBuzz, and their involvement makes the project being part of the national ecosystem. The project helps reducing the backlog in the field of (application of) AI technologies in Brabant, but those solutions of course are not restricted for the region per se. By providing an impulse for strengthening cooperation between knowledge institutions and business partners in the field of AI technologies and accelerating innovation by deploying knowledge and expertise on projects where the answer to existing questions has a direct impact on its environment (quadruple helix) the lab plays a role on a broader podium. MindLabs serves as the hub for that podium, by playing a key role in feeding the national AI ecosystem. We organize meetups, lectures, workshops and other events on a regular basis. Furthermore, MindLabs is an active participant in the Brainport AI Hub, collaborating with JADS, EAISI and TU Eindhoven in research projects.
Press coverage (selection)
https://www.tilburguniversity.edu/nl/mindlabs-start-vijf-nieuwe-innovatie-projecten
https://techniekgeniek.nl/mindlabs-vr-onderwijs-met-avatars-en-vluchtsimulatie/