Bogdan Rosca

We recently doubled the number of screens at our pneumatic experimental workstation and it has more than doubled our productivity. 

Before we had to switch between our three programs (Grafana, NodeRED and Machine Edition) along side mountains of documentations whenever we wanted to make a change or see the effect of our changes. Usually that wouldn’t be a problem because split screening has been a basic feature of windows for the last two decades. 

The problem arises when we want to analyze multiple things at once or we are setting up for a new analysis project. Switching between multiple programs can cause windows to break the organization that is originally set up. Another problem is window scaling. Two apps can work on the same monitor but some things are hidden and makes it annoying having to always full screen an app just to access a simple button.

Using multiple monitors enabled us to dedicate one app to a single screen. On our second monitor we just leave Grafana or a document on at all times and it has been fantastic. On the main monitor we still fight for screen space but it is still much better. Usually programming a new analysis requires only one app at a time anyways.

As Paul Krugman would say “productivity isn’t everything, but, in the long run, it is almost everything”. That being said, let’s see how multiple monitors improved our productivity.

1. Enhanced Multitasking: With two monitors at my disposal, I found myself effortlessly juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. Whether cross-referencing data, writing reports, or analyzing results, the ability to view different applications side by side has streamlined our workflow and allowed for a seamless transition between various research-related activities.
2. Increased Screen Real Estate: The expanded screen real estate provided by the second monitor has been a game-changer. Complex datasets and intricate graphs that once required constant zooming and scrolling are now visible in their entirety. This has not only accelerated data analysis but also reduced eye strain, contributing to a more comfortable and efficient work environment.
3. Facilitated Collaboration: Collaboration is at the heart of scientific research. The addition of a second monitor has facilitated collaborative efforts within our team. Whether working on joint projects or sharing findings during team meetings, the ability to display information on one screen while keeping reference materials on another has fostered better communication and idea exchange.
4. Improved Research Document Management: Managing numerous research documents and literature is an integral part of scientific work. The second monitor has allowed me to keep reference materials open and accessible while simultaneously drafting reports or conducting experiments on the primary screen. This has significantly reduced the time spent searching for relevant information and improved overall document organization.
5. Efficient Data Visualization: In scientific research, visualizing data is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions. The dual-monitor setup has allowed me to compare and contrast different data sets in real-time, leading to more insightful observations and faster decision-making. Whether working with complex detailed graphs, the enhanced visual clarity has been instrumental in our research processes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the integration of a second monitor into our laboratory workstation has undeniably elevated our efficiency and productivity. From improved multitasking to streamlined collaboration and enhanced data visualization, the benefits are evident across various aspects of our scientific work. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is clear that the dual-monitor setup has become an indispensable tool for researchers striving to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.…

On October 2, 2023, Bucharest hosted the significant EELISA Conference from October 3 to 6—a pivotal event since the alliance’s inception. Attended by notable figures from 12 nations, the conference featured diverse activities and discussions on topics such as the European Commission’s European Universities program, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the future of academic education in Europe. Importantly, during the Governing and Executive Board sessions, UNSTPB assumed the presidency for the next six months, signifying a leadership phase within EELISA’s strategic objectives. The conference stands as a testament to proactive engagement and the collective pursuit of academic excellence within the dynamic framework of the EELISA alliance.…

Laboratory Director Mihalache Ghinea represented UNSTPB at the annual SEFI Conference (European Society for Engineering Education) held in Dublin on September 10, 2023. During this notable occasion, the SEFI Executive Board convened to announce the appointment of new members to the SEFI Board of Directors for the ensuing 2 and 3 years. With the election of Mihalache Ghinea from UNSTPB and Emrah Acar (Istanbul University of Technology), it is discerned that a lasting and operational connection has been established between SEFI and the EELISA alliance. Furthermore, at this distinguished event, the investiture of the new SEFI president was disclosed, with Balazs Nagy Vince (Budapest BME) assuming the role of the new Chairman of the EELISA Executive Board effective from November 1, 2023.

From March 12 to March 19 2023, a group of international students participated in a BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) course on Virtual Reality (VR) at the Athens Network camp. The course, organized by AVRENG, focused on the AVRENG Lab’s pillar of Augmented and Virtual Reality, which is a vital component of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The ATHENS Network, established in 1997, is a collaborative effort among 14 European technological universities and nine ParisTech Graduate Schools of Engineering. Its primary objective is to facilitate the exchange of students, teachers, and researchers from prominent European technological universities and jointly participate in European technological development and training programs.

One of the network’s noteworthy initiatives is the ATHENS week, an intensive program of coursework taught at each member institution during November and March. In addition to the traditional ATHENS courses, the network introduced the BIP, a blended program that combines the ATHENS course during the ATHENS week with an online component before or after the session.

For the participating students, completing a BIP entailed earning a minimum of 3 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) and receiving a daily allowance of 70 € for on-site participation. There was an additional incentive of 50 € for “green traveling,” promoting sustainable transportation options. Students were advised to consult their home university’s local coordinator for further details before applying.

The AVRENG Lab, dedicated to the advancement of Augmented and Virtual Reality, specializes in academic and industrial connections, research infrastructure development, and specialized staff training. Five years ago, the lab initiated a master’s program called Educational Techniques in Virtual Environments, offering courses on LSM platforms and Augmented Reality used in e-learning platforms. During this period, the lab published several scientific papers and books, marking the emergence of A&VR activities in their faculty.

Under the leadership of AVRENG, the lab has been actively selecting students who understand the significance of virtual environments and experiences for industry and manufacturing. They aim to translate the technology from entertainment to the factories of the 21st century.

In pursuit of collaborative opportunities, AVRENG established ties with ENSAM Cluny for a Double Diploma program in 2006. This collaboration provided insights into the activities of the Institute Image in Chalon-sur-Saône, France. In May 2016, a working visit involving key representatives from both institutions took place, resulting in the decision to establish the AVRENG lab, specifically focusing on industrial applications of Augmented and Virtual Reality.

Over the next 2-3 years, AVRENG’s main objectives include integrating the lab into the university strategy, connecting it with national and international applicative research networks, securing funding for infrastructure development, identifying Romanian industries utilizing or planning to implement such technologies, fostering A&VR interest within the faculty’s programs, and establishing a strong partnership with the Institute Image.

AVRENG has already initiated projects involving holographic systems for telepresence and has acquired a virtual immersion system based on Oculus Rift glasses, enabling real research to commence. The collaboration between AVRENG and the Institute Image holds promise for advancing their shared objectives and furthering their respective scientific endeavors.

The participation of international students in the BIP VR course at Athens Network’s camp not only contributes to their academic growth but also fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of Augmented and Virtual Reality. With the AVRENG Lab’s dedication and the support of the ATHENS Network, the future of A&VR in engineering appears promising, paving the way for innovation and advancements in various industries.

From May 19th to 21st, 2023, the prestigious EELISA Student Scientific Competition took place in Pisa, organized by EELISA (European Engineering Learning Innovation and Science Alliance). The event attracted over 40 teams from the University Politehnica Bucharest, showcasing their innovative projects and research endeavors. Among these teams was our own, presenting our project on ”  THE USE OF SMART PNEUMATICS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES WITH PNEUMATIC ENGINES”

The EELISA Student Scientific Competition is a platform that fosters talent management and offers opportunities for self-education and elite training to nurture the future generation of scientists. It has been a cornerstone of talent development in Hungary for the past 70 years, with the participation of numerous top Hungarian researchers.

This year’s competition was held in conjunction with the 2nd Research-based Learning Symposia, with the aim of establishing collaborative research interests and activities among EELISA partners. The event followed a hybrid format, allowing participants to engage both on-site and online.

Our team joined the competition with great enthusiasm, presenting our groundbreaking project that focused on the application of intelligent pneumatics in the construction of engines for vehicles powered by compressed air. Our research delved deep into this field, exploring innovative techniques and addressing professional questions related to this technology.

The benefits of participating in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition are manifold. Firstly, it provided us with the opportunity to write a research paper akin to those published in the Scientific Student Associations movement. Moreover, it allowed us to delve deeper into our specific area of study, enabling us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

To participate in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition, we were required to submit a research report spanning 20 to 60 pages, prepared with the guidance of experienced supervisors. These reports underwent thorough evaluation by two reviewers before the event, ensuring the quality and rigor of our work.

At the symposia, each team delivered a 10-minute presentation, followed by a scientific discussion, in sessions dedicated to their respective fields of expertise. These presentations were evaluated based on the established rules of the Hungarian TDK and OTDK conferences.

Our team’s participation in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition has been an invaluable experience, allowing us to showcase our innovative research and collaborate with fellow scholars. We are immensely proud to have represented our university and contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge in our field…

We are delighted to announce that our team participated in the prestigious scientific session at Productica 2023, held on May 12-13, 2023. The event was organized by the Polytechnic University of Bucharest and the Municipality of Mioveni, in collaboration with the Academy of Romanian Scientists and the INCERTRANS SA Institute of Transport Research.

Productica 2023 marked its fifteenth edition since its inception in 2009 by the Center for Creativity Development, affiliated with the Academy of Romanian Scientists. The session aimed to showcase the latest scientific advancements from universities, research institutes, and companies. The conference included several sections, namely:

Innovative Products and Technologies

Advanced Materials for Human and Environmental Protection

Innovation based on Smart Development Strategies

Business Environment Development – dedicated section for companies

Our team presented a remarkable project titled “THE USE OF SMART PNEUMATICS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES WITH PNEUMATIC ENGINES” The project focused on exploring the potential of intelligent pneumatic systems in engine construction for vehicles powered by compressed air. Our research highlighted the advantages of this innovative approach, such as improved energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced performance.

We would like to express our gratitude to the organizing committee of Productica 2023 for providing us with this invaluable opportunity to present our research and contribute to the advancement of science and technology. Our participation in this session has not only expanded our knowledge but also fostered collaborations and exchanges with experts from various fields…