Projets novateurs réalisés

L2M – An Adaptive Instructional System for Simulator-Based Ice Management Training

Our project addresses a critical gap in maritime training, specifically the challenge of developing effective ice management skills in extreme environments. Traditional training methods rely heavily on human instructors, whose expertise is both scarce and costly, limiting the scalability and consistency of training programs. This issue is especially significant in industries like oil and gas, where inadequate training can lead to severe safety risks and operational inefficiencies. The core problem lies in the reliance on human instructors, which introduces inconsistencies in training outcomes and limits the ability to deliver comprehensive, standardized training. If unresolved, this inconsistency could lead to catastrophic failures in real-world operations.
Our solution introduces an AI-driven Adaptive Instructional System (AIS) that automates training in a simulator- based environment, providing personalized feedback to trainees and ensuring consistently high competency levels. By addressing the root cause of reliance on human instructors, the AIS has the potential to improve safety, reduce training costs, and provide more uniform skill set among trainees.
One of the primary challenges we face is convincing the traditionally cautious maritime industry to adopt AI-based training systems, especially for safety-critical tasks like ice management. There may also be skepticism about replacing human instructors with an automated system. In addition, obtaining regulatory approval and proving the system’s effectiveness through pilot programs are key hurdles.
This project aims to overcome these challenges by conducting pilot programs that demonstrate the AIS’s effectiveness in improving training outcomes. Independent validation and regulatory approval will also be pursued in the long-term to build trust with potential customers. By clearly communicating the cost savings, safety improvements, and consistency of our system, we will address industry concerns and pave the way for wider adoption.

L2M – Steel Catenary Riser Tracking

This project aims to develop an AI-enhanced autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) system designed to track Steel Catenary Risers (SCRs) in real time. Accurate tracking of SCRs is critical for maintaining the integrity of subsea infrastructure in the offshore oil and gas industry. The AUV will leverage advanced computer vision and machine learning techniques to continuously track the riser’s position and adjust its own movement to follow the structure precisely.

L2M – Integrated 3D Reconstruction and SLAM for precise 3D visualization and localization of underwater assets

Our project integrates AI-driven Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) with cutting-edge 3D reconstruction techniques to provide precise localization and high-fidelity 3D visualizations of underwater features. This fusion enables accurate measurement of size, depth, and spatial orientation of anomalies, enhancing inspection precision. By adopting this technology, industries can improve inspection accuracy, streamline maintenance, and reduce operational costs. Additionally, it boosts safety and efficiency, leading to better management and extended operational life of subsea assets. Through the Lab2Market Validate program and the Mitacs Business Strategy internship, we aim to develop commercially viable solutions tailored to the unique conditions of the Atlantic Ocean. This collaboration will help bridge the gap between innovative academic research and practical applications, enhancing the safety and efficiency of underwater operations and creating valuable commercialization opportunities for advanced technological research.

L2M – Sustainable photobioreactor

Overview and Main Activities of the Partner Organization
The partner organization is dedicated to enhancing urban environments through innovative solutions. One of their primary activities is developing decorative photobioreactors to improve air quality and provide aesthetic appeal in urban areas.

Innovation Challenge or Improvement Priority
The partner organization faces several challenges:
• Urban Air Pollution: There is a need to reduce CO2 levels and improve air quality in cities.

• Lack of Green Spaces: Enhancing urban environments with functional green infrastructure is a priority.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Providing visually appealing solutions for urban areas is essential.

Project Contribution
This project aims to address these challenges by developing an autonomous photobioreactor that:
• Reduces CO2 and improves air quality.

• Enhances urban environments with green infrastructure.

• Provides visually appealing solutions for urban areas.

Project Background, Business Ideas, and Industry Need
The project involves creating a decorative photobioreactor that can be used in urban areas to attract tourism and improve air quality. The need for such a device is driven by increasing urbanization and the associated environmental challenges.

Project Impact
This project aims to analyze the components/ characteristics of liquids resulting from pyrolysis/ hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL), / anaerobic digestion to determine their suitability as nutrients and mitigate biomass waste and eliminate minor risks associated with excess microalgae disposal.

L2M – PoseidonPulse

The proposed project focuses on developing a business and go-to-market strategy for PoseidonPulse, an advanced AI-powered water quality monitoring system designed to improve sustainability and operational efficiency in Canada’s aquaculture industry. By continuously tracking essential water parameters, this system enables aquaculture farms to proactively manage water quality, supporting healthier fish populations and optimized farm performance. Additionally, this project aims to adapt PoseidonPulse for Indigenous communities, where it could provide real-time monitoring solutions to address ongoing water supply challenges.
The L2M Validate program complements the proposed BSI project by offering crucial entrepreneurial skills development for researchers, enabling us to assess the market potential of research-driven products. Resources from L2M, including industry expert sessions and financial strategy training, will equip me with the skills needed to implement a successful business strategy throughout the BSI internship.

L2M – An adaptive communication module for real-time network switching between satellite and cellular or radio to optimize connectivity for autonomous maritime vessels (MASS).

The project aims to create a mountable communication system, for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships(MASS) that enables them to switch between satellite and cellular networks like LTE and 5G depending on signal strength automatically. This innovation ensures communication for the smooth and secure operation of unmanned ships. By investigating market requirements and strategic plans this initiative will provide information to the collaborating company regarding uses and customer engagement.This will lay the groundwork for product enhancements. Unveil fresh prospects, in the maritime technology industry.

Determination of postharvest practices that impact the physicochemical properties cannabis biomass ash

This academic-industry collaboration aims to determine postharvest storage methods, combustion
parameters and consumer behaviour for dried cannabis products that influence the physicochemical properties of
cannabis ash, of which appearance (colour and integrity) has become an inadvertent dried cannabis product attribute
that may drive consumer decisions towards legal distribution in a highly competitive market. Data generated from this
work will provide valuable information for postharvest practices, product maintenance/storage and shelf life that
ensure quality and safety, as well as offering a baseline of biomass ash properties for cannabis product intended for
inhalation, or for future work on industrial cannabis or hemp waste valorization. Together, findings will provide
scientific evidence and highlight Canada’s expertise for consumers while improving legal product trust, license
producers, and regulatory bodies invested in evolving cannabis and hemp industries on a global stage.

ESG-washing Detection using NLP

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The Effects of Sex Differences on Acute Muscle Protein Synthesis Responses following High-Intensity Interval Training

Musculoskeletal conditions, such as sarcopenia and frailty, have been documented to affect over one billion individuals globally. To address the escalating issues of muscle atrophy, resistance training (RE) has been widely recognized for preserving and enhancing muscle mass. However, individuals nowadays often face time constraints, making it challenging to consistently engage in RE. Considering this, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), a time-efficient exercise regimen, is an attractive alternative for those with demanding schedules. Although emerging evidence indicates that HIIT can modulate muscle protein synthesis (MPS) pathway, research on MPS responses has primarily focused on resistance training, leaving the effects of HIIT on MPS yet to be fully determined. In addition, due to the underrepresentation of females in muscle physiology studies, the effects of HIIT on MPS in women remain poorly understood. Physiological differences in females may influence the dynamics of MPS responses, making it crucial to account for the menstrual cycle when examining post-exercise MPS responses in females. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to determine whether there are sex differences in MPS responses following HIIE. The findings will not only deepen the understanding of HIIT, but also to potentially contribute to the development of sex-specific protein requirements for HIIT.

Urban Cycling as a Pathway to Gender Equity and LGBTQ+ Rights in Japan: A Policy and Practice Analysis

In 2022, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 76/255, hailing the bicycle as a form of sustainable transportation, recognizing “that the bicycle can serve as a tool for development and as a means not just of transportation but also of access to education, health care and sport” (UN General Assembly, 2022, p. 2). Indeed, access to bicycles for women, girls, and gender diverse individuals can address gender inequities in patriarchal societies (Hayhurst et al., 2022). What remains understudied with respect to gender inequity and cycling is the experience of bicycling for LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus) Japanese people. The current landscape of Japanese LGBTQ+ advocacy presents a timely opportunity to build on work that advocates for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ people in Japan (Tamagawa, 2023). To investigate how urban bicycling policies and practices in Japan intersect with gender inequity and LGBTQ+ rights, this project will involve a literature review of LGBTQ+ bicycling and related research, an analysis of government-issued bicycling policies in Japan, and case studies of community-based bicycling initiatives. The findings from this project will provide valuable insights for urban planners and key decision-makers on building more equitable mobility networks in Japan.

Modeling and Simulation of Novel Bioplastics Materials with Natural Fibers

This collaborative project, involving the University of Saskatchewan and Université de Lorraine in France, seeks to advance our understanding of bioplastics—environmentally-friendly materials made by combining polymers with natural fibers like flax or hemp. Our aim is to develop models that can predict how these materials behave under different conditions. By studying the small-scale structures of the fibers and their interactions within the bioplastic, we will build a model that captures how these materials respond to forces, stretching, and other changes. The results will be verified through experiments that help fine-tune the model’s accuracy. This research not only sheds light on the properties of bioplastics but also supports the development of new, sustainable materials with potential applications across various industries. The intern will receive training in theoretical mechanics and nonlinear elasticity at the Université de Lorraine, required for his successful participation in the project.

Robotic Assistance for Soft Tissue Surgery

Cooperative robotics in soft tissue surgery represents an innovative approach aimed at improving surgical precision, control, and safety. Soft tissue procedures are challenging due to the delicate, deformable nature of tissues and the close proximity to critical structures, requiring exceptional accuracy to avoid complications. Cooperative robotic systems are designed to work directly alongside surgeons, amplifying their capabilities by providing enhanced control, real-time imaging, and advanced haptic feedback. These systems integrate AI-driven guidance, which can assist in navigating complex anatomy and executing precise, minimally invasive maneuvers, compensating for human limitations such as hand tremors. The goal of this approach is to reduce variability in surgical outcomes, enhance precision in delicate procedures, and mitigate risks associated with manual techniques. By blending robotic precision with human expertise, cooperative robotics offers a promising path toward safer, more effective soft tissue surgeries, potentially setting a new standard in surgical technology.