@incollection{SchmitzDietzeCzarnecki2019, author = {Schmitz, Manfred and Dietze, Christian and Czarnecki, Christian}, title = {Enabling digital transformation through robotic process automation at Deutsche Telekom}, series = {Enabling digital transformation through robotic process automation at Deutsche Telekom}, booktitle = {Enabling digital transformation through robotic process automation at Deutsche Telekom}, editor = {Urbach, Nils and R{\"o}glinger, Maximilian}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-319-95272-7}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-95273-4_2}, pages = {15 -- 33}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Due to the high number of customer contacts, fault clearances, installations, and product provisioning per year, the automation level of operational processes has a significant impact on financial results, quality, and customer experience. Therefore, the telecommunications operator Deutsche Telekom (DT) has defined a digital strategy with the objectives of zero complexity and zero complaint, one touch, agility in service, and disruptive thinking. In this context, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) was identified as an enabling technology to formulate and realize DT's digital strategy through automation of rule-based, routine, and predictable tasks in combination with structured and stable data.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{CordesGligorevicBlicharski2019, author = {Cordes, Sven and Gligorevic, Snjezana and Blicharski, Peter}, title = {Analysis of sine precision influence on DOA estimation using the MUSIC algorithm}, series = {2019 20th International Radar Symposium (IRS)}, booktitle = {2019 20th International Radar Symposium (IRS)}, isbn = {978-3-7369-9860-5}, doi = {10.23919/IRS.2019.8768162}, pages = {1 -- 10}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GaldiHartungDugelay2019, author = {Galdi, Chiara and Hartung, Frank and Dugelay, Jean-Luc}, title = {Socrates: A database of realistic data for source camera recognition on smartphones}, series = {Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Pattern Recognition Applications and Methods - Volume 1: ICPRAM}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Pattern Recognition Applications and Methods - Volume 1: ICPRAM}, isbn = {978-989-758-351-3}, doi = {10.5220/0007403706480655}, pages = {648 -- 655}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @article{SchmidtForkmannSchultzetal.2019, author = {Schmidt, Katharina and Forkmann, Katarina and Schultz, Heidrun and Gratz, Marcel and Bitz, Andreas and Wiech, Katja and Bingel, Ulrike}, title = {Enhanced Neural Reinstatement for Evoked Facial Pain Compared With Evoked Hand Pain}, series = {The Journal of Pain}, journal = {The Journal of Pain}, number = {In Press, Corrected Proof}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1526-5900}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpain.2019.03.003}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @article{NoureddineKraffLaddetal.2019, author = {Noureddine, Yacine and Kraff, Oliver and Ladd, Mark E. and Wrede, Karsten and Chen, Bixia and Quick, Harald H. and Schaefers, Georg and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {Radiofrequency induced heating around aneurysm clips using a generic birdcage head coil at 7 Tesla under consideration of the minimum distance to decouple multiple aneurysm clips}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {Early view}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.27835}, pages = {1 -- 17}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SchifferBragard2019, author = {Schiffer, Fabian and Bragard, Michael}, title = {Cascaded LQ and Field-Oriented Control of a Mobile Inverse Pendulum (Segway) with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines}, series = {2019 20th International Conference on Research and Education in Mechatronics (REM)}, booktitle = {2019 20th International Conference on Research and Education in Mechatronics (REM)}, isbn = {978-1-5386-9257-8}, doi = {10.1109/REM.2019.8744101}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{BragardSubeSchneideretal.2019, author = {Bragard, Michael and Sube, Maike and Schneider, Maike and Jungemann, Christoph}, title = {Introducing a Cross-University Bachelor's Programme with Orientation Semester - Enabling a Permeable Academic Education System}, series = {2019 20th International Conference on Research and Education in Mechatronics (REM)}, booktitle = {2019 20th International Conference on Research and Education in Mechatronics (REM)}, isbn = {978-1-5386-9257-8}, doi = {10.1109/REM.2019.8744132}, pages = {1 -- 6}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @incollection{LeiseAltherrSimonetal.2019, author = {Leise, Philipp and Altherr, Lena and Simon, Nicolai and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Finding global-optimal gearbox designs for battery electric vehicles}, series = {Optimization of complex systems - theory, models, algorithms and applications : WCGO 2019}, booktitle = {Optimization of complex systems - theory, models, algorithms and applications : WCGO 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-21802-7}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-21803-4_91}, pages = {916 -- 925}, year = {2019}, abstract = {In order to maximize the possible travel distance of battery electric vehicles with one battery charge, it is mandatory to adjust all components of the powertrain carefully to each other. While current vehicle designs mostly simplify the powertrain rigorously and use an electric motor in combination with a gearbox with only one fixed transmission ratio, the use of multi-gear systems has great potential. First, a multi-speed system is able to improve the overall energy efficiency. Secondly, it is able to reduce the maximum momentum and therefore to reduce the maximum current provided by the traction battery, which results in a longer battery lifetime. In this paper, we present a systematic way to generate multi-gear gearbox designs that—combined with a certain electric motor—lead to the most efficient fulfillment of predefined load scenarios and are at the same time robust to uncertainties in the load. Therefore, we model the electric motor and the gearbox within a Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Program, and optimize the efficiency of the mechanical parts of the powertrain. By combining this mathematical optimization program with an unsupervised machine learning algorithm, we are able to derive global-optimal gearbox designs for practically relevant momentum and speed requirements.}, language = {en} } @incollection{StengerAltherrAbel2019, author = {Stenger, David and Altherr, Lena and Abel, Dirk}, title = {Machine learning and metaheuristics for black-box optimization of product families: a case-study investigating solution quality vs. computational overhead}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2018}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2018}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-18499-5 (Print)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-18500-8_47}, pages = {379 -- 385}, year = {2019}, abstract = {In product development, numerous design decisions have to be made. Multi-domain virtual prototyping provides a variety of tools to assess technical feasibility of design options, however often requires substantial computational effort for just a single evaluation. A special challenge is therefore the optimal design of product families, which consist of a group of products derived from a common platform. Finding an optimal platform configuration (stating what is shared and what is individually designed for each product) and an optimal design of all products simultaneously leads to a mixed-integer nonlinear black-box optimization model. We present an optimization approach based on metamodels and a metaheuristic. To increase computational efficiency and solution quality, we compare different types of Gaussian process regression metamodels adapted from the domain of machine learning, and combine them with a genetic algorithm. We illustrate our approach on the example of a product family of electrical drives, and investigate the trade-off between solution quality and computational overhead.}, language = {en} } @article{ClaerFerreinSchiffer2019, author = {Claer, Mario and Ferrein, Alexander and Schiffer, Stefan}, title = {Calibration of a Rotating or Revolving Platform with a LiDAR Sensor}, series = {Applied Sciences}, volume = {Volume 9}, journal = {Applied Sciences}, number = {issue 11, 2238}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, issn = {2076-3417}, doi = {10.3390/app9112238}, pages = {18 Seiten}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HofmannLimpertMatareetal.2019, author = {Hofmann, Till and Limpert, Nicolas and Matar{\´e}, Victor and Ferrein, Alexander and Lakemeyer, Gerhard}, title = {Winning the RoboCup Logistics League with Fast Navigation, Precise Manipulation, and Robust Goal Reasoning}, series = {RoboCup 2019: Robot World Cup XXIII. RoboCup}, booktitle = {RoboCup 2019: Robot World Cup XXIII. RoboCup}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-35699-6}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-35699-6_41}, pages = {504 -- 516}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FingerKhalsaKreyeretal.2019, author = {Finger, Felix and Khalsa, R. and Kreyer, J{\"o}rg and Mayntz, Joscha and Braun, Carsten and Dahmann, Peter and Esch, Thomas and Kemper, Hans and Schmitz, O. and Bragard, Michael}, title = {An approach to propulsion system modelling for the conceptual design of hybrid-electric general aviation aircraft}, series = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress 2019, 30.9.-2.10.2019, Darmstadt}, booktitle = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress 2019, 30.9.-2.10.2019, Darmstadt}, pages = {15 Seiten}, year = {2019}, abstract = {In this paper, an approach to propulsion system modelling for hybrid-electric general aviation aircraft is presented. Because the focus is on general aviation aircraft, only combinations of electric motors and reciprocating combustion engines are explored. Gas turbine hybrids will not be considered. The level of the component's models is appropriate for the conceptual design stage. They are simple and adaptable, so that a wide range of designs with morphologically different propulsive system architectures can be quickly compared. Modelling strategies for both mass and efficiency of each part of the propulsion system (engine, motor, battery and propeller) will be presented.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SadeghfamSadeghiAhangarElgamaletal.2019, author = {Sadeghfam, Arash and Sadeghi-Ahangar, A. and Elgamal, Abdelrahman and Heuermann, Holger}, title = {Design and Development of a Novel Self-Igniting Microwave Plasma Jet for Industrial Applications}, series = {IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium Digest}, booktitle = {IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium Digest}, isbn = {978-172811309-8}, pages = {63 -- 66}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{AlhwarinFerreinScholl2019, author = {Alhwarin, Faraj and Ferrein, Alexander and Scholl, Ingrid}, title = {An Efficient Hashing Algorithm for NN Problem in HD Spaces}, series = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science}, booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science}, isbn = {978-303005498-4}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-05499-1_6}, pages = {101 -- 115}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SteinbauerFerrein2019, author = {Steinbauer, Gerald and Ferrein, Alexander}, title = {CogRob 2018 : Cognitive Robotics Workshop. Proceedings of the 11th Cognitive Robotics Workshop 2018 co-located with 16th International Conference on Principles of Knowledge Representation and Reasoning (KR 2018). Tempe, AZ, USA, October 27th, 2018.}, series = {CEUR workshop proceedings}, booktitle = {CEUR workshop proceedings}, number = {Vol-2325}, issn = {1613-0073}, pages = {46 Seiten}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FerreinBharatheeshaSchifferetal.2019, author = {Ferrein, Alexander and Bharatheesha, Mukunda and Schiffer, Stefan and Corbato, Carlos Hernandez}, title = {TRROS 2018 : Teaching Robotics with ROS Workshop at ERF 2018; Proceedings of the Workshop on Teaching Robotics with ROS (held at ERF 2018), co-located with European Robotics Forum 2018 (ERF 2018), Tampere, Finland, March 15th, 2018}, series = {CEUR Workshop Proceedings}, booktitle = {CEUR Workshop Proceedings}, number = {Vol-2329}, issn = {1613-0073}, pages = {68 Seiten}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KirschMatareFerreinetal.2020, author = {Kirsch, Maximilian and Matar{\´e}, Victor and Ferrein, Alexander and Schiffer, Stefan}, title = {Integrating golog++ and ROS for Practical and Portable High-level Control}, series = {Proceedings of the 12th International Conference on Agents and Artificial Intelligence - Volume 2}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 12th International Conference on Agents and Artificial Intelligence - Volume 2}, publisher = {SciTePress}, address = {Set{\´u}bal, Portugal}, doi = {10.5220/0008984406920699}, pages = {692 -- 699}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The field of Cognitive Robotics aims at intelligent decision making of autonomous robots. It has matured over the last 25 or so years quite a bit. That is, a number of high-level control languages and architectures have emerged from the field. One concern in this regard is the action language GOLOG. GOLOG has been used in a rather large number of applications as a high-level control language ranging from intelligent service robots to soccer robots. For the lower level robot software, the Robot Operating System (ROS) has been around for more than a decade now and it has developed into the standard middleware for robot applications. ROS provides a large number of packages for standard tasks in robotics like localisation, navigation, and object recognition. Interestingly enough, only little work within ROS has gone into the high-level control of robots. In this paper, we describe our approach to marry the GOLOG action language with ROS. In particular, we present our architecture on inte grating golog++, which is based on the GOLOG dialect Readylog, with the Robot Operating System. With an example application on the Pepper service robot, we show how primitive actions can be easily mapped to the ROS ActionLib framework and present our control architecture in detail.}, language = {en} } @article{FiedlerLaddClemensetal.2020, author = {Fiedler, Thomas M. and Ladd, Mark E. and Clemens, Markus and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {Safety of subjects during radiofrequency exposure in ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging}, series = {IEEE Letters on Electromagnetic Compatibility Practice and Applications}, volume = {2}, journal = {IEEE Letters on Electromagnetic Compatibility Practice and Applications}, number = {3}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, isbn = {2637-6423}, doi = {10.1109/LEMCPA.2020.3029747}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most important medical imaging techniques. Since the introduction of MRI in the mid-1980s, there has been a continuous trend toward higher static magnetic fields to obtain i.a. a higher signal-to-noise ratio. The step toward ultra-high-field (UHF) MRI at 7 Tesla and higher, however, creates several challenges regarding the homogeneity of the spin excitation RF transmit field and the RF exposure of the subject. In UHF MRI systems, the wavelength of the RF field is in the range of the diameter of the human body, which can result in inhomogeneous spin excitation and local SAR hotspots. To optimize the homogeneity in a region of interest, UHF MRI systems use parallel transmit systems with multiple transmit antennas and time-dependent modulation of the RF signal in the individual transmit channels. Furthermore, SAR increases with increasing field strength, while the SAR limits remain unchanged. Two different approaches to generate the RF transmit field in UHF systems using antenna arrays close and remote to the body are investigated in this letter. Achievable imaging performance is evaluated compared to typical clinical RF transmit systems at lower field strength. The evaluation has been performed under consideration of RF exposure based on local SAR and tissue temperature. Furthermore, results for thermal dose as an alternative RF exposure metric are presented.}, language = {en} } @article{HueningBackes2020, author = {H{\"u}ning, Felix and Backes, Andreas}, title = {Direct observation of large Barkhausen jump in thin Vicalloy wires}, series = {IEEE Magnetics Letters}, volume = {11}, journal = {IEEE Magnetics Letters}, number = {Art. 2506504}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, isbn = {1949-307X}, doi = {10.1109/LMAG.2020.3046411}, pages = {1 -- 4}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{DinghoferHartung2020, author = {Dinghofer, Kai and Hartung, Frank}, title = {Analysis of Criteria for the Selection of Machine Learning Frameworks}, series = {2020 International Conference on Computing, Networking and Communications (ICNC)}, booktitle = {2020 International Conference on Computing, Networking and Communications (ICNC)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.1109/ICNC47757.2020.9049650}, pages = {373 -- 377}, year = {2020}, abstract = {With the many achievements of Machine Learning in the past years, it is likely that the sub-area of Deep Learning will continue to deliver major technological breakthroughs [1]. In order to achieve best results, it is important to know the various different Deep Learning frameworks and their respective properties. This paper provides a comparative overview of some of the most popular frameworks. First, the comparison methods and criteria are introduced and described with a focus on computer vision applications: Features and Uses are examined by evaluating papers and articles, Adoption and Popularity is determined by analyzing a data science study. Then, the frameworks TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch and Caffe are compared based on the previously described criteria to highlight properties and differences. Advantages and disadvantages are compared, enabling researchers and developers to choose a framework according to their specific needs.}, language = {en} } @article{Koehler2020, author = {K{\"o}hler, Klemens}, title = {A conflict theory perspective of IT attacks - consequences for IT security education}, number = {Preprint}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Cyberspace is "the environment formed by physical and non-physical components to store, modify, and exchange data using computer networks" (NATO CCDCOE). Beyond that, it is an environment where people interact. IT attacks are hostile, non-cooperative interactions that can be described with conflict theory. Applying conflict theory to IT security leads to different objectives for end-user education, requiring different formats like agency-based competence developing games.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{LeiseBreuerAltherretal.2020, author = {Leise, Philipp and Breuer, Tim and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Development, validation and assessment of a resilient pumping system}, series = {Proceedings of the Joint International Resilience Conference, JIRC2020}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the Joint International Resilience Conference, JIRC2020}, isbn = {978-90-365-5095-6}, pages = {97 -- 100}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The development of resilient technical systems is a challenging task, as the system should adapt automatically to unknown disturbances and component failures. To evaluate different approaches for deriving resilient technical system designs, we developed a modular test rig that is based on a pumping system. On the basis of this example system, we present metrics to quantify resilience and an algorithmic approach to improve resilience. This approach enables the pumping system to automatically react on unknown disturbances and to reduce the impact of component failures. In this case, the system is able to automatically adapt its topology by activating additional valves. This enables the system to still reach a minimum performance, even in case of failures. Furthermore, timedependent disturbances are evaluated continuously, deviations from the original state are automatically detected and anticipated in the future. This allows to reduce the impact of future disturbances and leads to a more resilient system behaviour.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{LorenzAltherrPelz2020, author = {Lorenz, Imke-Sophie and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Resilience enhancement of critical infrastructure - graph-theoretical resilience analysis of the water distribution system in the German city of Darmstadt}, series = {14th WCEAM Proceedings}, booktitle = {14th WCEAM Proceedings}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-64228-0}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-64228-0_13}, pages = {137 -- 149}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Water suppliers are faced with the great challenge of achieving high-quality and, at the same time, low-cost water supply. Since climatic and demographic influences will pose further challenges in the future, the resilience enhancement of water distribution systems (WDS), i.e. the enhancement of their capability to withstand and recover from disturbances, has been in particular focus recently. To assess the resilience of WDS, graph-theoretical metrics have been proposed. In this study, a promising approach is first physically derived analytically and then applied to assess the resilience of the WDS for a district in a major German City. The topology based resilience index computed for every consumer node takes into consideration the resistance of the best supply path as well as alternative supply paths. This resistance of a supply path is derived to be the dimensionless pressure loss in the pipes making up the path. The conducted analysis of a present WDS provides insight into the process of actively influencing the resilience of WDS locally and globally by adding pipes. The study shows that especially pipes added close to the reservoirs and main branching points in the WDS result in a high resilience enhancement of the overall WDS.}, language = {en} } @incollection{SchneiderWisselinkNoelleetal.2020, author = {Schneider, Dominik and Wisselink, Frank and N{\"o}lle, Nikolai and Czarnecki, Christian}, title = {Influence of artificial intelligence on commercial interactions in the consumer market}, series = {Automatisierung und Personalisierung von Dienstleistungen : Methoden - Potenziale - Einsatzfelder}, booktitle = {Automatisierung und Personalisierung von Dienstleistungen : Methoden - Potenziale - Einsatzfelder}, editor = {Bruhn, Manfred and Hadwich, Karsten}, publisher = {Springer Gabler}, address = {Wiesbaden}, isbn = {978-3-658-30167-5 (Print)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-658-30168-2_7}, pages = {183 -- 205}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Recently, novel AI-based services have emerged in the consumer market. AI-based services can affect the way consumers take commercial decisions. Research on the influence of AI on commercial interactions is in its infancy. In this chapter, a framework creating a first overview of the influence of AI on commercial interactions is introduced. This framework summarizes the findings of comparing numerous customer journeys of novel AI-based services with corresponding non-AI equivalents.}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaFiedlerBitzetal.2020, author = {Orzada, Stephan and Fiedler, Thomas M. and Bitz, Andreas and Ladd, Mark E. and Quick, Harald H.}, title = {Local SAR compression with overestimation control to reduce maximum relative SAR overestimation and improve multi-channel RF array performance}, series = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, number = {34 (2021)}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Heidelberg}, isbn = {1352-8661}, doi = {10.1007/s10334-020-00890-0}, pages = {153 -- 164}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Objective In local SAR compression algorithms, the overestimation is generally not linearly dependent on actual local SAR. This can lead to large relative overestimation at low actual SAR values, unnecessarily constraining transmit array performance. Method Two strategies are proposed to reduce maximum relative overestimation for a given number of VOPs. The first strategy uses an overestimation matrix that roughly approximates actual local SAR; the second strategy uses a small set of pre-calculated VOPs as the overestimation term for the compression. Result Comparison with a previous method shows that for a given maximum relative overestimation the number of VOPs can be reduced by around 20\% at the cost of a higher absolute overestimation at high actual local SAR values. Conclusion The proposed strategies outperform a previously published strategy and can improve the SAR compression where maximum relative overestimation constrains the performance of parallel transmission.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{LorenzAltherrPelz2020, author = {Lorenz, Imke-Sophie and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Assessing and Optimizing the Resilience of Water Distribution Systems Using Graph-Theoretical Metrics}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, editor = {Neufeld, Janis S. and Buscher, Udo and Lasch, Rainer and M{\"o}st, Dominik and Sch{\"o}nberger, J{\"o}rn}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48439-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_63}, pages = {521 -- 527}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Water distribution systems are an essential supply infrastructure for cities. Given that climatic and demographic influences will pose further challenges for these infrastructures in the future, the resilience of water supply systems, i.e. their ability to withstand and recover from disruptions, has recently become a subject of research. To assess the resilience of a WDS, different graph-theoretical approaches exist. Next to general metrics characterizing the network topology, also hydraulic and technical restrictions have to be taken into account. In this work, the resilience of an exemplary water distribution network of a major German city is assessed, and a Mixed-Integer Program is presented which allows to assess the impact of capacity adaptations on its resilience.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{LeiseSimonAltherr2020, author = {Leise, Philipp and Simon, Nicolai and Altherr, Lena}, title = {Comparison of Piecewise Linearization Techniques to Model Electric Motor Efficiency Maps: A Computational Study}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48439-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_55}, pages = {457 -- 463}, year = {2020}, abstract = {To maximize the travel distances of battery electric vehicles such as cars or buses for a given amount of stored energy, their powertrains are optimized energetically. One key part within optimization models for electric powertrains is the efficiency map of the electric motor. The underlying function is usually highly nonlinear and nonconvex and leads to major challenges within a global optimization process. To enable faster solution times, one possibility is the usage of piecewise linearization techniques to approximate the nonlinear efficiency map with linear constraints. Therefore, we evaluate the influence of different piecewise linearization modeling techniques on the overall solution process and compare the solution time and accuracy for methods with and without explicitly used binary variables.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{MeckMuellerAltherretal.2020, author = {Meck, Marvin M. and M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Improving an industrial cooling system using MINLP, considering capital and operating costs}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48438-5 (Print)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_61}, pages = {505 -- 512}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The chemical industry is one of the most important industrial sectors in Germany in terms of manufacturing revenue. While thermodynamic boundary conditions often restrict the scope for reducing the energy consumption of core processes, secondary processes such as cooling offer scope for energy optimisation. In this contribution, we therefore model and optimise an existing cooling system. The technical boundary conditions of the model are provided by the operators, the German chemical company BASF SE. In order to systematically evaluate different degrees of freedom in topology and operation, we formulate and solve a Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Program (MINLP), and compare our optimisation results with the existing system.}, language = {en} } @article{MuellerLeiseLorenzetal.2020, author = {M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Leise, Philipp and Lorenz, Imke-Sophie and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Optimization and validation of pumping system design and operation for water supply in high-rise buildings}, series = {Optimization and Engineering}, volume = {2021}, journal = {Optimization and Engineering}, number = {22}, publisher = {Springer}, issn = {1573-2924}, doi = {10.1007/s11081-020-09553-4}, pages = {643 -- 686}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The application of mathematical optimization methods for water supply system design and operation provides the capacity to increase the energy efficiency and to lower the investment costs considerably. We present a system approach for the optimal design and operation of pumping systems in real-world high-rise buildings that is based on the usage of mixed-integer nonlinear and mixed-integer linear modeling approaches. In addition, we consider different booster station topologies, i.e. parallel and series-parallel central booster stations as well as decentral booster stations. To confirm the validity of the underlying optimization models with real-world system behavior, we additionally present validation results based on experiments conducted on a modularly constructed pumping test rig. Within the models we consider layout and control decisions for different load scenarios, leading to a Deterministic Equivalent of a two-stage stochastic optimization program. We use a piecewise linearization as well as a piecewise relaxation of the pumps' characteristics to derive mixed-integer linear models. Besides the solution with off-the-shelf solvers, we present a problem specific exact solving algorithm to improve the computation time. Focusing on the efficient exploration of the solution space, we divide the problem into smaller subproblems, which partly can be cut off in the solution process. Furthermore, we discuss the performance and applicability of the solution approaches for real buildings and analyze the technical aspects of the solutions from an engineer's point of view, keeping in mind the economically important trade-off between investment and operation costs.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{MuellerAltherrLeiseetal.2020, author = {M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Altherr, Lena and Leise, Philipp and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Optimization of pumping systems for buildings: Experimental validation of different degrees of model detail on a modular test rig}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48438-5}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_58}, pages = {481 -- 488}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Successful optimization requires an appropriate model of the system under consideration. When selecting a suitable level of detail, one has to consider solution quality as well as the computational and implementation effort. In this paper, we present a MINLP for a pumping system for the drinking water supply of high-rise buildings. We investigate the influence of the granularity of the underlying physical models on the solution quality. Therefore, we model the system with a varying level of detail regarding the friction losses, and conduct an experimental validation of our model on a modular test rig. Furthermore, we investigate the computational effort and show that it can be reduced by the integration of domain-specific knowledge.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HoegenDonckerRuetters2020, author = {Hoegen, Anne von and Doncker, Rik W. De and R{\"u}tters, Ren{\´e}}, title = {Teaching Digital Control of Operational Amplifier Processes with a LabVIEW Interface and Embedded Hardware}, series = {2020 23rd International Conference on Electrical Machines and Systems (ICEMS)}, booktitle = {2020 23rd International Conference on Electrical Machines and Systems (ICEMS)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.23919/ICEMS50442.2020.9290928}, pages = {1117 -- 1122}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Control engineering theory is hard to grasp for undergraduates during the first semesters, as it deals with the dynamical behavior of systems also in combination with control strategies on an abstract level. Therefore, operational amplifier (OpAmp) processes are reasonable and very effective systems to connect mathematical description with actual system's behavior. In this paper, we present an experiment for a laboratory session in which an embedded system, driven by a LabVIEW human machine interface (HMI) via USB, controls the analog circuits.With this setup we want to show the possibility of firstly, analyzing a first order process and secondly, designing a P-and PI-controller. Thereby, the theory of control engineering is always applied to the empirical results in order to break down the abstract level for the students.}, language = {en} } @incollection{IbanezSanchezWolf2020, author = {Ibanez-Sanchez, Gema and Wolf, Martin R.}, title = {Interactive Process Mining-Induced Change Management Methodology for Healthcare}, series = {Interactive Process Mining in Healthcare}, booktitle = {Interactive Process Mining in Healthcare}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-53993-1 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-53993-1_16}, pages = {267 -- 293}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The adoption of the Digital Health Transformation is a tremendous paradigm change in health organizations, which is not a trivial process in reality. For that reason, in this chapter, it is proposed a methodology with the objective to generate a changing culture in healthcare organisations. Such a change culture is essential for the successful implementation of any supporting methods like Interactive Process Mining. It needs to incorporate (mostly) new ways of team-based and evidence-based approaches for solving structural problems in a digital healthcare environment.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ElgamalHeuermann2020, author = {Elgamal, Abdelrahman and Heuermann, Holger}, title = {Design and Development of a Hot S-Parameter Measurement System for Plasma and Magnetron Applications}, series = {Proceedings of the 2020 German Microwave Conference}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2020 German Microwave Conference}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, isbn = {978-3-9820397-1-8}, pages = {124 -- 127}, year = {2020}, abstract = {This paper presents the design, development and calibration procedures of a novel hot S-parameter measurement system for plasma and magnetron applications with power level up to 6 kW. Based on a vector network analyzer, a power amplifier and two directional couplers, the input matching hotS 11 and transmission hotS 21 of the device under test are measured at 2.45 GHz center frequency and 300MHz bandwidth, while the device is driven by the magnetron. This measurement system opens a new horizon to develop many new industrial applications such as microwave plasma jets, dryer systems, dryers and so forth. Furthermore, the developing, controlling and monitoring a 2kW 2.45GHz plasma jet and a dryer system using the measurement system are presented and explained.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{RekePeterSchulteTiggesetal.2020, author = {Reke, Michael and Peter, Daniel and Schulte-Tigges, Joschua and Schiffer, Stefan and Ferrein, Alexander and Walter, Thomas and Matheis, Dominik}, title = {A Self-Driving Car Architecture in ROS2}, series = {2020 International SAUPEC/RobMech/PRASA Conference, Cape Town, South Africa}, booktitle = {2020 International SAUPEC/RobMech/PRASA Conference, Cape Town, South Africa}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, isbn = {978-1-7281-4162-6}, doi = {10.1109/SAUPEC/RobMech/PRASA48453.2020.9041020}, pages = {1 -- 6}, year = {2020}, abstract = {In this paper we report on an architecture for a self-driving car that is based on ROS2. Self-driving cars have to take decisions based on their sensory input in real-time, providing high reliability with a strong demand in functional safety. In principle, self-driving cars are robots. However, typical robot software, in general, and the previous version of the Robot Operating System (ROS), in particular, does not always meet these requirements. With the successor ROS2 the situation has changed and it might be considered as a solution for automated and autonomous driving. Existing robotic software based on ROS was not ready for safety critical applications like self-driving cars. We propose an architecture for using ROS2 for a self-driving car that enables safe and reliable real-time behaviour, but keeping the advantages of ROS such as a distributed architecture and standardised message types. First experiments with an automated real passenger car at lower and higher speed-levels show that our approach seems feasible for autonomous driving under the necessary real-time conditions.}, language = {en} } @article{RoepkeKoehlerDruryetal.2020, author = {Roepke, Rene and K{\"o}hler, Klemens and Drury, Vincent and Schroeder, Ulrik and Wolf, Martin R. and Meyer, Ulrike}, title = {A pond full of phishing games - analysis of learning games for anti-phishing education}, series = {Model-driven Simulation and Training Environments for Cybersecurity. MSTEC 2020}, journal = {Model-driven Simulation and Training Environments for Cybersecurity. MSTEC 2020}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-62433-0}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-62433-0_32020}, pages = {41 -- 60}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Game-based learning is a promising approach to anti-phishing education, as it fosters motivation and can help reduce the perceived difficulty of the educational material. Over the years, several prototypes for game-based applications have been proposed, that follow different approaches in content selection, presentation, and game mechanics. In this paper, a literature and product review of existing learning games is presented. Based on research papers and accessible applications, an in-depth analysis was conducted, encompassing target groups, educational contexts, learning goals based on Bloom's Revised Taxonomy, and learning content. As a result of this review, we created the publications on games (POG) data set for the domain of anti-phishing education. While there are games that can convey factual and conceptual knowledge, we find that most games are either unavailable, fail to convey procedural knowledge or lack technical depth. Thus, we identify potential areas of improvement for games suitable for end-users in informal learning contexts.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{EltesterFerreinSchiffer2020, author = {Eltester, Niklas Sebastian and Ferrein, Alexander and Schiffer, Stefan}, title = {A smart factory setup based on the RoboCup logistics league}, series = {2020 IEEE Conference on Industrial Cyberphysical Systems (ICPS)}, booktitle = {2020 IEEE Conference on Industrial Cyberphysical Systems (ICPS)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.1109/ICPS48405.2020.9274766}, pages = {297 -- 302}, year = {2020}, abstract = {In this paper we present SMART-FACTORY, a setup for a research and teaching facility in industrial robotics that is based on the RoboCup Logistics League. It is driven by the need for developing and applying solutions for digital production. Digitization receives constantly increasing attention in many areas, especially in industry. The common theme is to make things smart by using intelligent computer technology. Especially in the last decade there have been many attempts to improve existing processes in factories, for example, in production logistics, also with deploying cyber-physical systems. An initiative that explores challenges and opportunities for robots in such a setting is the RoboCup Logistics League. Since its foundation in 2012 it is an international effort for research and education in an intra-warehouse logistics scenario. During seven years of competition a lot of knowledge and experience regarding autonomous robots was gained. This knowledge and experience shall provide the basis for further research in challenges of future production. The focus of our SMART-FACTORY is to create a stimulating environment for research on logistics robotics, for teaching activities in computer science and electrical engineering programmes as well as for industrial users to study and explore the feasibility of future technologies. Building on a very successful history in the RoboCup Logistics League we aim to provide stakeholders with a dedicated facility oriented at their individual needs.}, language = {en} } @article{FaganBitzBjoerkmanBurtscheretal.2021, author = {Fagan, Andrew J. and Bitz, Andreas and Bj{\"o}rkman-Burtscher, Isabella M. and Collins, Christopher M. and Kimbrell, Vera and Raaijmakers, Alexander J. E.}, title = {7T MR Safety}, series = {Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (JMRI)}, volume = {53}, journal = {Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (JMRI)}, number = {2}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2586}, doi = {10.1002/jmri.27319}, pages = {333 -- 346}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{SerrorHackHenzeetal.2021, author = {Serror, Martin and Hack, Sacha and Henze, Martin and Schuba, Marko and Wehrle, Klaus}, title = {Challenges and Opportunities in Securing the Industrial Internet of Things}, series = {IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics}, volume = {17}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics}, number = {5}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York}, issn = {1941-0050}, doi = {10.1109/TII.2020.3023507}, pages = {2985 -- 2996}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HoegenDonckerBragardetal.2021, author = {Hoegen, Anne von and Doncker, Rik W. De and Bragard, Michael and Hoegen, Svenja von}, title = {Problem-based learning in automation engineering: performing a remote laboratory aession aerving various educational attainments}, series = {2021 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON)}, booktitle = {2021 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.1109/EDUCON46332.2021.9453925}, pages = {1605 -- 1614}, year = {2021}, abstract = {During the Covid-19 pandemic, vocational colleges, universities of applied science and technical universities often had to cancel laboratory sessions requiring students' attendance. These above of all are of decisive importance in order to give learners an understanding of theory through practical work.This paper is a contribution to the implementation of distance learning for laboratory work applicable for several upper secondary educational facilities. Its aim is to provide a paradigm for hybrid teaching to analyze and control a non-linear system depicted by a tank model. For this reason, we redesign a full series of laboratory sessions on the basis of various challenges. Thus, it is suitable to serve different reference levels of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).We present problem-based learning through online platforms to compensate the lack of a laboratory learning environment. With a task deduced from their future profession, we give students the opportunity to develop own solutions in self-defined time intervals. A requirements specification provides the framework conditions in terms of time and content for students having to deal with the challenges of the project in a self-organized manner with regard to inhomogeneous previous knowledge. If the concept of Complete Action is introduced in classes before, they will automatically apply it while executing the project.The goal is to combine students' scientific understanding with a procedural knowledge. We suggest a series of remote laboratory sessions that combine a problem formulation from the subject area of Measurement, Control and Automation Technology with a project assignment that is common in industry by providing extracts from a requirements specification.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HueningStuettgen2021, author = {H{\"u}ning, Felix and St{\"u}ttgen, Marcel}, title = {Work in Progress: Interdisciplinary projects in times of COVID-19 crisis - challenges, risks and chances}, series = {2021 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON)}, booktitle = {2021 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.1109/EDUCON46332.2021.9454006}, pages = {1175 -- 1179}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Project work and inter disciplinarity are integral parts of today's engineering work. It is therefore important to incorporate these aspects into the curriculum of academic studies of engineering. At the faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology an interdisciplinary project is part of the bachelor program to address these topics. Since the summer term 2020 most courses changed to online mode during the Covid-19 crisis including the interdisciplinary projects. This online mode introduces additional challenges to the execution of the projects, both for the students as well as for the lecture. The challenges, but also the risks and chances of this kind of project courses are subject of this paper, based on five different interdisciplinary projects}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{Huening2021, author = {H{\"u}ning, Felix}, title = {Sustainable changes beyond covid-19 for a second semester physics course for electrical engineering students}, series = {Blended Learning in Engineering Education: challenging, enlightening - and lasting?}, booktitle = {Blended Learning in Engineering Education: challenging, enlightening - and lasting?}, isbn = {978-2-87352-023-6}, pages = {1424 -- 1428}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The course Physics for Electrical Engineering is part of the curriculum of the bachelor program Electrical Engineering at University of Applied Science Aachen. Before covid-19 the course was conducted in a rather traditional way with all parts (lecture, exercise and lab) face-to-face. This teaching approach changed fundamentally within a week when the covid-19 limitations forced all courses to distance learning. All parts of the course were transformed to pure distance learning including synchronous and asynchronous parts for the lecture, live online-sessions for the exercises and self-paced labs at home. Using these methods, the course was able to impart the required knowledge and competencies. Taking the teacher's observations of the student's learning behaviour and engagement, the formal and informal feedback of the students and the results of the exams into account, the new methods are evaluated with respect to effectiveness, sustainability and suitability for competence transfer. Based on this analysis strong and weak points of the concept and countermeasures to solve the weak points were identified. The analysis further leads to a sustainable teaching approach combining synchronous and asynchronous parts with self-paced learning times that can be used in a very flexible manner for different learning scenarios, pure online, hybrid (mixture of online and presence times) and pure presence teaching.}, language = {en} } @article{LeiseEsserEichenlaubetal.2021, author = {Leise, Philipp and Eßer, Arved and Eichenlaub, Tobias and Schleiffer, Jean-Eric and Altherr, Lena and Rinderknecht, Stephan and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Sustainable system design of electric powertrains - comparison of optimization methods}, series = {Engineering Optimization}, journal = {Engineering Optimization}, publisher = {Taylor \& Francis}, address = {London}, issn = {0305-215X}, doi = {10.1080/0305215X.2021.1928660}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The transition within transportation towards battery electric vehicles can lead to a more sustainable future. To account for the development goal 'climate action' stated by the United Nations, it is mandatory, within the conceptual design phase, to derive energy-efficient system designs. One barrier is the uncertainty of the driving behaviour within the usage phase. This uncertainty is often addressed by using a stochastic synthesis process to derive representative driving cycles and by using cycle-based optimization. To deal with this uncertainty, a new approach based on a stochastic optimization program is presented. This leads to an optimization model that is solved with an exact solver. It is compared to a system design approach based on driving cycles and a genetic algorithm solver. Both approaches are applied to find efficient electric powertrains with fixed-speed and multi-speed transmissions. Hence, the similarities, differences and respective advantages of each optimization procedure are discussed.}, language = {en} } @incollection{AltherrLeise2021, author = {Altherr, Lena and Leise, Philipp}, title = {Resilience as a concept for mastering uncertainty}, series = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, booktitle = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-78353-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-78354-9}, pages = {412 -- 417}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @incollection{AltherrLeisePfetschetal.2021, author = {Altherr, Lena and Leise, Philipp and Pfetsch, Marc E. and Schmitt, Andreas}, title = {Optimal design of resilient technical systems on the example of water supply systems}, series = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, booktitle = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-78356-3}, pages = {429 -- 433}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @incollection{LeiseAltherr2021, author = {Leise, Philipp and Altherr, Lena}, title = {Experimental evaluation of resilience metrics in a fluid system}, series = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, booktitle = {Mastering Uncertainty in Mechanical Engineering}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-78356-3}, pages = {442 -- 447}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{NikolovskiRekeElsenetal.2021, author = {Nikolovski, Gjorgji and Reke, Michael and Elsen, Ingo and Schiffer, Stefan}, title = {Machine learning based 3D object detection for navigation in unstructured environments}, series = {2021 IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium Workshops (IV Workshops)}, booktitle = {2021 IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium Workshops (IV Workshops)}, publisher = {IEEE}, isbn = {978-1-6654-7921-9}, doi = {10.1109/IVWorkshops54471.2021.9669218}, pages = {236 -- 242}, year = {2021}, abstract = {In this paper we investigate the use of deep neural networks for 3D object detection in uncommon, unstructured environments such as in an open-pit mine. While neural nets are frequently used for object detection in regular autonomous driving applications, more unusual driving scenarios aside street traffic pose additional challenges. For one, the collection of appropriate data sets to train the networks is an issue. For another, testing the performance of trained networks often requires tailored integration with the particular domain as well. While there exist different solutions for these problems in regular autonomous driving, there are only very few approaches that work for special domains just as well. We address both the challenges above in this work. First, we discuss two possible ways of acquiring data for training and evaluation. That is, we evaluate a semi-automated annotation of recorded LIDAR data and we examine synthetic data generation. Using these datasets we train and test different deep neural network for the task of object detection. Second, we propose a possible integration of a ROS2 detector module for an autonomous driving platform. Finally, we present the performance of three state-of-the-art deep neural networks in the domain of 3D object detection on a synthetic dataset and a smaller one containing a characteristic object from an open-pit mine.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{RitschelStenzelCzarneckietal.2021, author = {Ritschel, Konstantin and Stenzel, Adina and Czarnecki, Christian and Hong, Chin-Gi}, title = {Realizing robotic process automation potentials: an architectural perspective on a real-life implementation case}, series = {GI Edition Proceedings Band 314 "INFORMATIK 2021" Computer Science \& Sustainability}, booktitle = {GI Edition Proceedings Band 314 "INFORMATIK 2021" Computer Science \& Sustainability}, editor = {Gesellschaft f{\"u}r Informatik e.V. (GI),}, publisher = {K{\"o}llen}, address = {Bonn}, isbn = {9783885797081}, issn = {1617-5468}, doi = {10.18420/informatik2021-108}, pages = {1303 -- 1311}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The initial idea of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is the automation of business processes through a simple emulation of user input and output by software robots. Hence, it can be assumed that no changes of the used software systems and existing Enterprise Architecture (EA) is required. In this short, practical paper we discuss this assumption based on a real-life implementation project. We show that a successful RPA implementation might require architectural work during analysis, implementation, and migration. As practical paper we focus on exemplary lessons-learned and new questions related to RPA and EA.}, language = {en} } @incollection{CzarneckiHongSchmitzetal.2021, author = {Czarnecki, Christian and Hong, Chin-Gi and Schmitz, Manfred and Dietze, Christian}, title = {Enabling digital transformation through cognitive robotic process automation at Deutsche Telekom Services Europe}, series = {Digitalization Cases Vol. 2 : Mastering digital transformation for global business}, booktitle = {Digitalization Cases Vol. 2 : Mastering digital transformation for global business}, editor = {Urbach, Nils and R{\"o}glinger, Maximilian and Kautz, Karlheinz and Alias, Rose Alinda and Saunders, Carol and Wiener, Martin}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-80002-4 (Print)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-80003-1}, pages = {123 -- 138}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Subject of this case is Deutsche Telekom Services Europe (DTSE), a service center for administrative processes. Due to the high volume of repetitive tasks (e.g., 100k manual uploads of offer documents into SAP per year), automation was identified as an important strategic target with a high management attention and commitment. DTSE has to work with various backend application systems without any possibility to change those systems. Furthermore, the complexity of administrative processes differed. When it comes to the transfer of unstructured data (e.g., offer documents) to structured data (e.g., MS Excel files), further cognitive technologies were needed.}, language = {en} } @incollection{CzarneckiFettke2021, author = {Czarnecki, Christian and Fettke, Peter}, title = {Robotic process automation : Positioning, structuring, and framing the work}, series = {Robotic process automation : Management, technology, applications}, booktitle = {Robotic process automation : Management, technology, applications}, editor = {Czarnecki, Christian and Fettke, Peter}, publisher = {De Gruyter}, address = {Oldenbourg}, isbn = {978-3-11-067668-6 (Print)}, doi = {10.1515/9783110676693-202}, pages = {3 -- 24}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Robotic process automation (RPA) has attracted increasing attention in research and practice. This chapter positions, structures, and frames the topic as an introduction to this book. RPA is understood as a broad concept that comprises a variety of concrete solutions. From a management perspective RPA offers an innovative approach for realizing automation potentials, whereas from a technical perspective the implementation based on software products and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are relevant. RPA is industry-independent and can be used, for example, in finance, telecommunications, and the public sector. With respect to RPA this chapter discusses definitions, related approaches, a structuring framework, a research framework, and an inside as well as outside architectural view. Furthermore, it provides an overview of the book combined with short summaries of each chapter.}, language = {en} } @incollection{BensbergAuthCzarnecki2021, author = {Bensberg, Frank and Auth, Gunnar and Czarnecki, Christian}, title = {Finding the perfect RPA match : a criteria-based selection method for RPA solutions}, series = {Robotic process automation : Management, technology, applications}, booktitle = {Robotic process automation : Management, technology, applications}, editor = {Czarnecki, Christian and Fettke, Peter}, publisher = {De Gruyter}, address = {Oldenbourg}, isbn = {978-3-11-067677-8}, doi = {10.1515/9783110676693-201}, pages = {47 -- 75}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The benefits of robotic process automation (RPA) are highly related to the usage of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software products that can be easily implemented and customized by business units. But, how to find the best fitting RPA product for a specific situation that creates the expected benefits? This question is related to the general area of software evaluation and selection. In the face of more than 75 RPA products currently on the market, guidance considering those specifics is required. Therefore, this chapter proposes a criteria-based selection method specifically for RPA. The method includes a quantitative evaluation of costs and benefits as well as a qualitative utility analysis based on functional criteria. By using the visualization of financial implications (VOFI) method, an application-oriented structure is provided that opposes the total cost of ownership to the time savings times salary (TSTS). For the utility analysis a detailed list of functional criteria for RPA is offered. The whole method is based on a multi-vocal review of scientific and non-scholarly literature including publications by business practitioners, consultants, and vendors. The application of the method is illustrated by a concrete RPA example. The illustrated structures, templates, and criteria can be directly utilized by practitioners in their real-life RPA implementations. In addition, a normative decision process for selecting RPA alternatives is proposed before the chapter closes with a discussion and outlook.}, language = {en} }