Prof. Arbnor Pajaziti
University of Prishtina, Kosovo

Speech Title: Advances in Intelligent Robotics and Human–Machine Collaboration: Recent Research from the University of Prishtina

Abstract: This talk will provide an overview of the recent research activities carried out at the Department of Mechatronics, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Prishtina, where our team has been working at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and intelligent automation. Over the last few years, we have developed several robotic systems and mechatronic devices aimed at addressing real practical needs in industry, healthcare, and everyday life.
Among our major efforts are the development of bio-inspired and prosthetic robotic hands designed to offer more natural movement and control, as well as the creation of an accessible mechanical ventilator that integrates smart sensing for improved reliability in emergency situations. We have also been exploring new concepts for automation lines that focus on adaptability, efficiency, and ease of integration into existing industrial environments. These projects reflect our broader goal of building systems that are technically strong while also being useful and impactful.
A significant part of our current work is dedicated to bringing AI into robotic decision-making. By combining machine learning approaches with multi-criteria decision models such as our modified TOPSIS framework, we are enabling robots to analyse complex environments, make informed decisions, and operate with greater autonomy. We are also studying sensor fusion and cognitive models to improve how robots perceive and interpret the world around them.
The final part of the talk will look toward the future of robotics, especially how robots can move from simply operating near humans to actively cooperating with them. This includes research on shared autonomy, safe interaction, and adaptive learning, all of which are essential for robots that work alongside people in healthcare, manufacturing, and service applications.
This presentation will offer a clear and integrated view of our ongoing contributions, while highlighting the exciting possibilities ahead for collaborative and intelligent robotic systems.

Biography: Prof. Dr. Arbnor Pajaziti received the B.Sc. degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Prishtina, Kosovo, the M.Sc. degree from the University of Zagreb, Croatia, and the Ph.D. degree in Robotics and Intelligent Control from the Vienna University of Technology, Austria. He has been a Professor at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina,” since 2010, where he also serves as Head of the Department of Mechatronics.

He has extensive research experience in robotics, mechatronics, artificial intelligence, and intelligent control systems, including neural networks, fuzzy logic, and evolutionary algorithms. Prof. Pajaziti has led several national and international research projects in robotics and has authored numerous scientific publications and textbooks in engineering and technology.

His current research interests include mobile robotics, autonomous systems, intelligent motion control, and AI-driven robotic applications.

 

 

 

 

Assoc. Prof. Ting Zou
Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada

Biography: Ting Zou received the B.Sc. degree in electrical engineering and the M.Sc. degree in automatic control engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China, and the Ph.D. degree in robotics and mechatronics from McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Afterward, she joined the Centre for Intelligent Machines of McGill University as a Postdoctoral fellow, working on the optimum design of the next-generation multi-speed transmissions for electric vehicles and nonlinear motion control of autonomous tracked vehicles for mining drilling operations. She is currently an Associate Professor with the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada. Her current research interests include mechanism design and control of biologically inspired robots, advanced human–robot interaction, machine learning for robotic applications, soft robots, and MEMS. Dr. Zou is a senior Member of the IEEE, and member of ASME, Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineers, and Canadian Committee for the Theory of Machines and Mechanisms.

 

 

 

Asst. Researcher Kuo-Chin Jong
National Institutes of Applied Research, Taiwan

Biography: Dr. Kuo-Chin Jong received his Ph.D. degree in Photonics and Optoelectronics from National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, in 2010. He is currently an Assistant Researcher at the Science & Technology Policy Research and Information Center, National Institutes of Applied Research, Taipei, Taiwan.
His research focuses on patent landscape analysis, innovation strategy, and emerging technology policy. In particular, he is interested in developing purpose-driven innovation models and applying them to strategic foresight, enabling policymakers and industry leaders to better understand the evolving dynamics of advanced technologies such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Dr. Jong actively integrates patent analytics with innovation frameworks to provide actionable insights that bridge science, technology, and policy.