We aim to acquire the iCub 2.0 robotic platform to investigate cognitive robotics, neurorobotics, social robotics and their integration. Cognitive robotics allows us to investigate cognitive abilities and the grounding of conceptual representations by means of the physical interactions of the iCub with its environment. Neurorobotics allows us to investigate neuronal learning processes based on these interactions. Social robotics allows us to investigate the social interactions between humans and robots, and the factors that determine the acceptance of robots by humans. The combination of cognitive robotics, neurorobotics and social robotics provides unique possibilities for the integration of these fields. The iCub allows us to test and investigate cognitive architectures and mechanisms by the direct execution of behavior in a physical environment, not just by simulation or analysis. Furthermore, the mechanisms involved concern the entire process from perception to action, instead of just a part of it (leaving open the question of how that part would fit in with the rest of the process). Comparing the behavior of the robot with that of humans allows us to test our models of the cognitive mechanisms that humans apply in similar tasks. We will use the robot to learn conceptual representations of its environment through the coordinated use of its senses and limbs. Understanding how the robot learns from interacting with its environment informs us about how humans could learn from similar experiences. The new capabilities of the iCub 2.0 (e.g., force control, optical flow, touch abilities) allow us to learn and investigate a range of novel conceptual representations. The successful development of robots will critically depend on whether humans accept robots in their environment and on how humans are able to interact with them in a safe and purposive manner. Conversely, the robot will have to learn its social behavior by interacting with humans. The iCub allows us to test and investigate human-robot dialogue based on the accurate detection of human non-verbal and verbal social behaviors and the real time behavioral responses of the robot. The iCub will allow us to address societal relevant contexts of robot applications such as health and care. The infrastructure for the iCub is provided for by the campus of the University of Twente, which guarantees the optimal use of the highly multidisciplinary research platform offered by the iCub. We provide access to and use of the iCub for other national research institutes.

Blinde personen kunnen visuele, niet-verbale cues niet gebruiken die vaak cruciaal zijn om sociaal relevante informatie op te pikken van andere personen, zoals gevoelens en intenties. In het te ontwikkelen product gebruiken we geavanceerde beeldanalysemethoden en trillingen op de huid om informatie van het gezicht van anderen (zoals gezichtsexpressies) door te geven aan de gebruiker.

The learning path of students is mostly controlled by the educational program. At the same time, we want students to take responsibility for the direction of their own development. The University of Twente Curriculum Inventory (UTCI) is a competence based curriculum tool. Starting from their development goals and envisioned role in society, students gain directed control over the design of their degree program. Educational programs can respond with flexible program content to the increasing diversity of student characteristics. In this project, the UTCI will be developed as an online environment and students and program staff will have a go.

Our increased life expectancy unfortunately goes hand in hand with an increased number of years living with chronic conditions. These conditions cannot be cured, but both the development of comorbidities and the quality of life are strongly influenced by proper self-management and by deploying a healthy lifestyle. In the EDIC project, we develop a novel data-driven artificial coaching platform that supports chronically ill patients in making optimal lifestyle decisions. We bring in expertise in data mining, telemedicine, e-coaching, behavioral sciences and domain expertise, and particularly focus on the bariatric and diabetes-2 patient population.

In the Netherlands, there is no national approach for early detection of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes in the general population, despite the social and economic impact of these disorders. The Check@Home consortium was founded to fill this gap and is committed to set up an accessible and (cost-)effective national program for the early detection and treatment of chronic diseases to prevent progression and complications. A program that is accessible to all socio-economic groups, takes place in the citizens own living environment, reduces the burden on primary care and contributes to the affordability and sustainability of healthcare. Check@Home is an initiative of the Dutch CardioVascular Alliance, Dutch Heart Foundation, Dutch Kidney Foundation and Dutch Diabetes Research Foundation and involves citizens, patients, private parties, and experts from various disciplines (life sciences, health economics, humanities, social sciences, communication). To closely match the wishes and needs of citizens, the program will be developed and implemented with citizens, including vulnerable groups, and other stakeholders in 4 regions in the Netherlands (Breda, Utrecht, Arnhem, and Eindhoven). 160,000 people (50-75 years) will be invited for a home-based test using the Check@Home digital platform. In case of early signs of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular or kidney damage, a targeted work-up will follow in a regional diagnostic center. If necessary, lifestyle advice and initiation of medication will be provided to relieve regular care as much as possible.