Advanced Learning, Control and AutomatioN (ALCAN)

As Advanced Learning, Control, and AutomatioN (ALCAN) Research Group at Tampere University, we develop solutions for one of the greatest challenges in control of systems: safe and robust operation in all settings, especially for those directly interacting with humans such as autonomous vehicles, industrial machines operating around workers, and service robots among crowds.

Today’s technological wonders, from robotics to autonomous transport, have the potential to revolutionize our world. However, these systems are governed by unique dynamics and ever-increasing complexities. Our primary goal is to enable these systems to function safely and reliably by equipping them to handle uncertain or time-varying conditions and adapt to a constantly changing environment.

To achieve this, we tackle the following key challenges:

• Uncertainty-aware system modeling and identification
• Constrained optimization for safety and performance
• Learning to manage real-world system complexity and variability
• Data-efficient, real-time, and explainable implementation

We apply our foundational research to solve tangible problems in three primary areas:

• Robotic Manipulation: We develop techniques for learning how to manipulate both deformable and rigid objects, including advanced bimanipulation and mobile manipulation.
• Safe Navigation: We focus on constrained trajectory optimization for complex nonlinear systems and robust decision-making under uncertainty to ensure vehicles and robots navigate their environments safely.
• Shared Control: We investigate shared autonomy between humans and intelligent machines, using active cognitive learning to create more intuitive and effective robotic assistance. 

At ALCAN, we are dedicated to shaping a future where advanced robotic and autonomous systems seamlessly and safely integrate into human-centric environments. By pioneering solutions for safe and robust control, we aim to unlock the full potential of these transformative technologies, enhancing productivity, improving safety, and fostering new possibilities across diverse sectors.