Abstract: The goal of this project is to develop fundamental theory, computationally efficient algorithms, and real- world experiments for the analysis and design of safety-critical cyber-physical transportation systems with human operators. We envision a nearby future in which roads will be populated by networks of smart vehicles that will cooperate with each other, with the surrounding infrastructure, and with their drivers to make transportation safer, more enjoyable, and more efficient.

Abstract: The SDB project seeks to design, engineer, and evaluate the foundational information substrate for cyberphysical systems in a concrete, canonical form -  creation  of  efficient,  agile,  model- driven, human-centered building systems. Modern commercial buildings provide increasingly integrated Building Management Systems, but are typically closed or based on proprietary interfaces, are difficult to extend, and it is expensive to add new capabilities.

Abstract: Although coastal waters play a crucial part in the ecosystem and economy, detailed monitoring of these areas has been difficult. This multi-institutional project presents a novel technology, where a large number of autonomous underwater vehicles organize themselves as a swarm, forming a dense four-dimensional spatio-temporal sampling system.

Abstract: The objective of this research is to develop a theory of “ActionWebs”, that is, networked embedded sensor-rich systems, which can be tasked to coordinate multiple decision- makers. The approach is to first identify models of ActionWebs using stochastic hybrid systems, an interlinking of continuous dynamical physical models with discrete state representations of interconnection and computation. Second, algorithms will be designed for tasking individual sensors, based on information objectives for the entire system.

Abstract: This project has two closely related objectives. The first is to design and evaluate new Cyber Transportation System (CTS) architectures, protocols and applications for improved traffic safety and traffic operations. The second is to design and develop an integrated traffic-driving-networking simulator. The project takes a multi-disciplinary approach that combines cyber technologies, transportation engineering and human factors.

Abstract: The project aims to establish a Cyber-Physical Infrastructure for urban environments and address fundamental problems that involve data collection, resource allocation, real-time decision making, safety, and security.

Abstract: We are developing advanced distributed monitoring and control systems for civil infrastructure. The approach employs cyber-physical co-design of wireless sensor-actuator networks and structural monitoring and control algorithms. The unified cyber-physical system architecture provides reusable middleware services for developing hierarchical structural monitoring and control systems.

Abstract: How much should a person be allowed to interact with a controlled machine? If that machine is easily destabilized, and if the controller operating it is essential to its operation, the answer may be that the person should not be allowed any control authority at all. Using a combination of techniques coming from machine learning, optimal control, and formal verification, the proposed work focuses on a computable notion of trust that allows the embedded system to assess the safety of instruction.

Abstract: The physical environment of a cyber-physical system is unboundedly complex, changing continuously in time and space. An embodied cyber- physical system, embedded in the physical world, receives a high bandwidth stream of sensory information, and sends continuous control signals. Traditional embedded systems restrict the environment or the attributes considered relevant, and depend on human supervision.

Abstract: Many practical barriers continue to exist for a blind individual who strives to live an independent and active life, despite decades of development of assistive technologies. This project addresses the following two most prominent challenges: (1) disparity in information-sharing among people with visual impairment and its limited understanding by the research community; and (2) lack of methods and tools for effectively addressing the disparity.