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Publicações

2025

Context-Aware Systems Architecture in Industry 4.0: A Systematic Literature Review

Autores
Santos, A; Lima, C; Pinto, T; Reis, A; Barroso, J;

Publicação
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL

Abstract
Featured Application This review highlights interoperability, automation, and decision-making as critical requirements for context-aware systems in the manufacturing domain that integrate the principles of Industry 4.0. It discusses relevant patterns and technologies, identifies context gaps, emphasises ontologies' importance, and proposes directions for future research.Abstract Technological evolution has driven the integration of computing devices in various domains, giving rise to heterogeneous and dynamic intelligent environments; together with market pressure, these pose challenges in formulating an architecture that takes advantage of contextual knowledge. In terms of architectural design, we are witnessing a transition from a centralised, monolithic view of systems to a decentralised view that incorporates the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the production environment. Therefore, this review aimed to (i) identify the requirements, (ii) find out about the representation models and context inference techniques, and (iii) identify architectural technologies, norms, models, and standards. The results observed in 25 articles made it possible to identify interoperability, automation, and decision-making as convergence points and observe the adoption of ontologies as a research area for context representation. In contrast, the discussion of context inference techniques remains open. Finally, this study presents recommendations for the design of a context-aware systems architecture that incorporates the principles of Industry 4.0 and facilitates the development of applications.

2025

From Competition to Classroom: A Hands-on Approach to Robotics Learning

Autores
Lopes, MS; Ribeiro, JD; Moreira, AP; Rocha, CD; Martins, JG; Sarmento, JM; Carvalho, JP; Costa, PG; Sousa, RB;

Publicação
2025 IEEE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AUTONOMOUS ROBOT SYSTEMS AND COMPETITIONS, ICARSC

Abstract
Robotics education plays a crucial role in developing STEM skills. However, university-level courses often emphasize theoretical learning, which can lead to decreased student engagement and motivation. In this paper, we tackle the challenge of providing hands-on robotics experience in higher education by adapting a mobile robot originally designed for competitions to be used in laboratory classes. Our approach integrates real-world robot operation into coursework, bridging the gap between simulation and physical implementation while maintaining accessibility. The robot's software is developed using ROS, and its effectiveness is assessed through student surveys. The results indicate that the platform increases student engagement and interest in robotics topics. Furthermore, feedback from teachers is also collected and confirmed that the platform boosts students' confidence and understanding of robotics.

2025

Innovative Approaches in Sensory Food Science: From Digital Tools to Virtual Reality

Autores
Cosme, F; Rocha, T; Marques, C; Barroso, J; Vilela, A;

Publicação
Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

Abstract
The food industry faces growing challenges due to evolving consumer demands, requiring digital technologies to enhance sensory analysis. Innovations such as eye tracking, FaceReader, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming consumer behavior research by providing deeper insights into sensory experiences. For instance, FaceReader captures emotional responses to food by analyzing facial expressions, offering valuable data on consumer preferences for taste, texture, and aroma. Together, these technologies provide a comprehensive understanding of the sensory experience, aiding product development and branding. Electronic nose, tongue, and eye technologies also replicate human sensory capabilities, enabling objective and efficient assessment of aroma, taste, and color. The electronic nose (E-nose) detects volatile compounds for aroma evaluation, while the electronic tongue (E-tongue) evaluates taste through electrochemical sensors, ensuring accuracy and consistency in sensory analysis. The electronic eye (E-eye) analyzes food color, supporting quality control processes. These advancements offer rapid, non-invasive, reproducible assessments, benefiting research and industrial applications. By improving the precision and efficiency of sensory analysis, digital tools help enhance product quality and consumer satisfaction in the competitive food industry. This review explores the latest digital methods shaping food sensory research and innovation. © 2025 by the authors.

2025

Improving customer retention in taxi industry using travel data analytics: A churn prediction study

Autores
Loureiro, ALD; Miguéis, VL; Costa, Á; Ferreira, M;

Publicação
Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services

Abstract
The retention of public transport users is widely acknowledged as a paramount challenge in the path towards the establishment of more sustainable cities and societies. In this setting, in which no contractual relationship with customers exists, an early and accurate prediction of whether a customer will remain with the company or leave, assumes great significance for businesses to develop effective retention strategies. This work focuses on this topic by identifying potential churners based on their past travel behavior. To achieve this, we developed a set of classification models using various machine learning techniques. These models were then employed as base learners within a stacking ensemble. All classifiers were developed with a profit-driven approach, optimizing for expected maximum profit. Finally, we calculated Shapley Additive Explanation values to enhance the interpretability of the proposed classifiers. The performance of the predictive models was evaluated using the data of taxi services recorded in a Portuguese city for 52 months. A broad range of predictors is proposed, including recency and frequency measures of taxi usage as well as others related to customers' satisfaction level. The predictive power of the models was also assessed for specific proportions of higher risk customers. All models have shown the capability to identify churners accurately. This study innovates in evaluating the one-to-one service provider company-customer relationship in the context of taxi industry. Retention actions to promote customers loyalty and enhance retention are also suggested. © 2025 The Author(s)

2025

Exploring multimodal learning applications in marketing: A critical perspective

Autores
César, I; Pereira, I; Rodrigues, F; Miguéis, VL; Nicola, S; Madureira, A;

Publicação
Int. J. Hybrid Intell. Syst.

Abstract
This review discusses the integration of intelligent technologies into customer interactions in organizations and highlights the benefits of using artificial intelligence systems based on a multimodal approach. Multimodal learning in marketing is explored, focusing on understanding trends and preferences by analyzing behavior patterns expressed in different modalities. The study suggests that research in multimodality is scarce but reveals that it is as a promising field for overcoming decision-making complexity and developing innovative marketing strategies. The article introduces a methodology for accurately representing multimodal elements and discusses the theoretical foundations and practical impact of multimodal learning. It also examines the use of embeddings, fusion techniques, and explores model performance evaluation. The review acknowledges the limitations of current multimodal approaches in marketing and encourages more guidelines for future research. Overall, this work emphasizes the importance of integrating intelligent technology in marketing to personalize customer experiences and improve decision-making processes.

2025

Motorcycle Displays Features and Smartphone Mobile Applications for Improving UI/UX Design: A Systematic Literature Review

Autores
Ribeiro, A; Oliveira, J; Nunes, R; Barroso, J; Rocha, T;

Publicação
DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, SPECIAL SESSIONS I, 21ST INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

Abstract
The increase in the use of mobile phones in recent years has raised significant concerns regarding road safety, more specifically motorcycle accidents. Driver distraction caused by mobile phone use is a topic of great importance, given the negative impact on traffic safety and the occurrence of accidents. In this way, the design of optimized and strategically planned interfaces for electric motorcycle displays can play a crucial role in driver safety, minimizing distractions and, consequently, the risk of accidents. This paper proposes a systematic review of the literature on improving electric motorcycle displays in the context of mobile applications, exploring the best way for the display to become the only digital tool needed while driving, without causing distraction to the driver. To achieve this result, recent studies from the scientific literature were analyzed, highlighting the importance of a clean layout containing only relevant information to the visual elements. The interface structure should be easy to understand and recognize, with feedback always available so as not to overwhelm the user experience. Through the review, we studied how to improve the design of motorcycle displays and reduce the use of mobile phones while driving. The results were essential for us to understand that the usability of the interface is crucial for consistency in its structure, as well as the vocabulary, which must be coherent and in familiar language.

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