DDTlab is a research lab operating in the fields of cybernetics, virtualization, BCI systems, and robotics. DDTlab enables regional, national, and international connectivity. As part of social innovation for smart factories, demands for the humanization of technology are being placed through robotization. Robotization is one of the key directions of progress at the onset of the 21st century. Advancements in this field are moving towards increasing autonomy, flexibility, and sustainability. Thus, a modern-day »machine« is not merely intended for a mechanic performance of a single function, but is becoming an increasingly independent agent, designed to solve complex problems faced by the individual, the economy, the society, and mankind. The development of robotics thus actually refers to advancements in human-robot interfaces, i.e., artificial intelligence. DDTlab is a platform that focuses on creating research and education projects that combine science, art, technology and business.
DDTlab has three laboratories, which interact in a productive and harmonious way.
Head of the laboratory:
Dr. Maša Jazbec
1. VR AND AR LAB
VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) can lead to new and exciting discoveries in areas that affect our daily lives. Whenever it is too dangerous, expensive or impractical for humans to do something in the real world, virtual or augmented reality is the answer or the solution. From training pilots and surgeons to historical architectural applications operated by scientists, VR and AR allow us to take virtual risks to gain real-world experience.
- VR experience production (Nubians 360°, Vertigo Bird 2020, Minning Stories, NeuroFly).
- AR project production (AR Laibach, LesARius, AR 4.Dritl).
- Workshops to learn about VR technologies and worshops to create VR worlds.
- Workshops to learn about AR technologies and workshops to create AR applications.
2. CREATIVE ROBOTICS LAB
Under the premise of »creative robotics«, we present new innovative fields of interaction between humans and robots. We provide introduction to NAO robots and the Yaskawa robotic arm, present the operation and software of the robots and work with the Yaskawa robotic arm controller. The training is not only technical oriented, but also humanistic and artistic. The aim of this type of education is to encourage young people to think outside the box when it comes to using robots in our society.
The Yaski Creative Robotics project is a collaboration between DDTlab and Yaskawa, an industrial robotics company. The project is a unique transfer of technology from the industrial to the social sphere that brings the virtue of humanity to a repetitive robotic arm. The user has the opportunity to learn about industrial robotics through creative, artistic and innovative applications that demonstrate the wider applicability of industrial robotics (»out of the box« principles). Robots are becoming increasingly present in our daily lives, but young people and the general public do not have the opportunity to learn about the advancements in robotics. This is why we want to spread this knowledge by demonstrating innovative approaches to industrial robotics. We also work with young people at school, giving them the opportunity to develop and explore robotics with us and to learn hands-on in our laboratory.
Social robotics
At DDTlab, we are intensively working on humanising technologies, introducing and developing new applications for robotics. We have developed a character and an identity for the NAO robot, which has been given the presonalised name Eva. The Eva robot represents an innovative and creative approach to presenting and learning about robotics. She regularly posts her adventures on her Facebook profile and YouTube channel.
3. BCI LAB
BCI – Brain-Computer Interface – is a computer system that captures brain signals, analyses them and converts them into the appropriate commands to execute output applications. BCI systems were initially developed for biomedical applications, enabling the regaining of mobility for the physically handicapped and replacing motor functionality. In addition to biomedical applications, efficient BCI systems are now also used in many other areas. Thus, the research into the applications of BCI systems has expanded beyond medicine to areas such as smart environments, art, education, games, advertising, etc. At DDTlab, we are developing new applications for brain-computer interfaces.
Neuro robotics projects are a unique transfer of technology from the domin of robotics to the social domain, bringing the virtue of humanity to robots. The user controls the movements of industrial and humanoid robots through a brain-computer interface. This allows direct communication between the brain and the device that we want to control and operate with the help of the brain. In the case of Neuro Robotics, this is the possibility of controlling robots using brain signals.
In BCI workshops, participants learn about the human brain, this amazing organ made up of billions of tiny cells. The mentor introduces BCI – the interface between the brain and the machine – the computer – in an interesting and interactive way. Participants have the opportunity to create with brain signals: paint on a digital canvas, write, control a robotic ball, write with a industrial robotic arm and control the movements of the humanoid robot Eva.
