The Vice-Rector for Scientific Research and Development, Prof. Dr. Štefko Miklavič, promoted 18 new Doctors of Science. Among this year’s candidates, there were 3 candidates from the HICUP Lab:
- Dr Nuwan Tharanga Attygalle
- Dr Elham Motamedi Mohammadabadi
- Dr Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos
The images and a short presentation of each of their thesis are available below.
Dr Nuwan Tharanga Attygalle
Thesis Title: “Improving interaction with radar-based gesture recognition for sensing through materials”
Abstract: Gesture recognition with millimetre radar has gained attention from researchers and industry due to the increasing availability of radar chips and advances in deep learning. However, there are a number of challenges if sensors are embedded in everyday objects and gestures need to be detected through different materials. This thesis addresses these problems by identifying the properties of materials that affect radar signals and developing a robust gesture classifier that works through a variety of materials. Key contributions include optimising the learning process, minimising the number of materials required, and demonstrating accurate detection of gestures.
Dr Elham Motamedi Mohammadabadi
Thesis title: “Modelling users and content using hedonicity and eudaimonicity for personalised recommender systems”
Abstract: This thesis investigated the impact of integrating psychologically informed features, in particular eudaimonic and hedonic experiences, into recommender systems. The potential for integrating these qualities into state-of-the-art algorithms for improving personalised recommendations was demonstrated. In addition, automatic models have been developed to predict these characteristics for both users and items. The work provides a basis for future efforts to apply these insights to create more interpretable recommendations.
Dr Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos
Thesis title: “Designing interactive paper displays by interweaving physical and digital content using horizontal touchscreens”
Abstract: This thesis explores methods for integrating paper with digital content, focusing on overcoming the limitations of existing systems, in particular the lack of tools and hardware that allow interactions between the physical and digital worlds. In this context, the work presents several innovative interactive paper technologies: (i) Dynamic Perforated Paper, which increases the resolution of digital content on a paper screen, (ii) LightMeUp – a technology that enables multi-stable visual displays that are created by printing on the back of the paper, and (iii) A hybrid pen designed to support interaction with both paper and tablet interfaces or both media simultaneously. The contributions of this work aim to improve the interactivity and display quality of interactive paper-based systems and to bridge the gap between paper and digital media.