ASSCL Lab

1. Lab Overview

• Leader: Prof. Ahmad Taher Azar
• Research Focus: The lab emphasizes automated systems, computational intelligence, autonomous robotics, smart mobility, and hybrid intelligent systems. It aims to become a globally recognized research hub.
• Objectives:
  • Conduct cutting-edge research in automated systems.
  • Collaborate with industry partners to apply research outcomes in real-world challenges.
  • Contribute to educational initiatives and secure external funding.

2. Key Achievements

• Research Outputs:
  • Journals: 35 papers published (13 in Q1 journals, 17 in Q2 journals).
  • Conferences: 7 conference papers presented.
  • Books: 4 books and 6 book chapters.
  • Training Programs: 1 training program held.
• Funding: Received 60,000 SAR from Prince Sultan University.
• Patents: No specific patents reported, but the lab is involved in several innovative research projects.

3. Research Areas

• Intelligent Automated Systems: Autonomous vehicles, mobile robotics, robotic manipulators, robot vision, and swarm robotics.
• Artificial and Computational Intelligence: Deep learning, reinforcement learning, evolutionary computation, neuro-fuzzy systems, and swarm intelligence.
• Smart Mobility: AI for smart driving, parking, and intelligent transportation systems.

4. Major Research Projects

• Colon Cancer Detection System: Developed a deep learning-based system for early detection and segmentation of colon cancer, achieving significant results in accuracy.
• Robotic Manipulators Control: Developed an adaptive fractional-order fixed-time sliding mode control for precise and stable manipulation under disturbances and uncertainties.
• Visual Assistance for Visually Impaired: Created "Basira," an AI-powered system that helps visually impaired users read books and recognize images using voice-based technology.

5. Software and Platforms Developed

• Basira: AI-based visual assistance tool for the visually impaired.
• ExoKnee: A wearable knee-assistive system with synergetic motion control for rehabilitation.
• RoboAfocon: A system for precise control of robotic arms using advanced sliding mode control.
• Colona: Deep learning system designed for enhanced colon cancer detection.

6. Partnerships & Collaborations

The lab has actively collaborated with various local and international institutions. It also participated in prominent events such as LEAP 2023, where it showcased innovations in robotics and AI.

7. Events & Dissemination

• Workshops and Conferences: The lab organized and participated in several international workshops and conferences, such as:
  • Global Trends in E-Learning (GTEL): The lab presented an intelligent reader for the visually impaired, which was recognized as one of the top projects.
  • LEAP 2023: Participated in the exhibition to showcase technologies related to robotics, AI, and medical applications.
  • International Conferences: Presented papers at various high-profile international conferences, such as IEEE International Conference on Smart Mobility and ICCAD 2023.

8. Awards and Recognition

• Lab members, particularly Prof. Ahmad Taher Azar, received several prestigious awards, including:
  • Stanford’s World’s Top 2% Scientists listing.
  • PSU Research Excellence Award for contributions to the field of AI and robotics.
  • Highest Impact Researcher’s Award at Prince Sultan University for the academic year 2022/2023.

9. Research Highlights

• The lab's research has made significant advancements in areas like deep learning, control systems, robotic manipulators, and AI applications for smart mobility.
• Publications in high-impact journals such as Fractal and Fractional and Journal of Vibration and Control.

10. Future Goals

• Expand collaborations with international academic and industrial partners.
• Continue advancing research in AI, robotics, and intelligent systems.
• Enhance the lab's global presence by participating in more international conferences and publications.