AI for Sustainable Engineering: DOST-ASTI showcases R&D Innovations at IMERC 2024
Cebu City, Ph — The DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) showcased its innovative R&D projects at the 12th International Mechanical Engineering Research Conference (IMERC) 2024 held in University of San Carlos - Talamban Campus, Cebu City from 18-19 January 2024, highlighting the agency’s commitment to enhancing partnerships with academia and industry.
Organized by the University of San Carlos' Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, in collaboration with the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (Lapu-Lapu Chapter), the conference's theme, “Mechanical Engineering for Sustainable Innovation: Creating a Greener Future,” set the stage for discussions on a wide range of engineering and technology-related topics. The event explored future trends and derived valuable insights from researchers and technical experts in related fields.
Mr. Elmer C. Peramo, representing DOST-ASTI, delivered a plenary presentation titled “Integrating AI in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science: Pathways to Sustainable Innovation,” highlighting DOST-ASTI's commitment to cross-disciplinary research and showcasing AI as a transformative force alongside traditional engineering practices.
The presentation featured DOST-ASTI’s high-impact initiatives, including the Computing and Archiving Research Environment (COARE), Philippine Earth Data Resource Observation Center (PEDRO) Center, Resilient Education Information Infrastructure for the New Normal (REIINN), V2X Initiatives for Road Safety (VIROS), Research and Capability-building in Autonomous and Unmanned Systems (AUS), and the Robot for Optimized and Autonomous Mission-Enhancement Responses (ROAMER) projects.
Moreover, Mr. Peramo introduced the ASTI-Automated Labeling Machine (ASTI-ALaM) project which aims to democratize access to machine learning and artificial neural network-based models through its Decentralized Intelligent Model Exchange Repository (DIMER) model store, and promote equitable and widespread AI innovation.
“[IMERC 2024] is not just about networking but also deepening our understanding and application of AI in fields closely related to our project. The use cases of ASTI-ALaM encompass aspects of mechanical engineering, aligning closely with the research and work undertaken by USC students. By attending this conference, we can explore and share advancements in AI that have practical applications,” he added emphasizing the significance of engaging with the academic community.
DOST-ASTI’s active involvement in IMERC 2024 aimed not only to exhibit its R&D innovations, but also to pave the way for future research collaborations, knowledge exchange, and potential formal partnerships with conference participants, speakers, and organizers. By promoting AI-driven R&D innovation in mechanical engineering and related fields, DOST-ASTI plays a pivotal role in contributing to sustainable national development.
Taking the lead in sustainable engineering at IMERC 2024: (L-R) Dr. Michael E. Loretero, Ph.D., Chair of the USC Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Engr. Stephen P. Tao (Conference Chair), plenary speakers Dr. Virgilio Y. Abellana, Ph.D., Robert Thiel, M.Sc. from University of Applied Sciences Leipzig- Institute of Measurement and Control Engineering, along with DOST-ASTI’s S&T Fellow Engr. Eduardo D. Piedad Jr., and Mr. Elmer C. Peramo, Senior Science Research Specialist.
Concurrent with the breakout sessions, Engr. Piedad Jr., and Mr. Peramo engage in strategic discussion with the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering to explore potential R&D collaboration between University of San Carlos and DOST-ASTI.