Invited Speakers

Dr. Jalil Boudjadar
Aarhus University

Speech Title: Embedded systems for Edge computing and AI applications: Potential, technology gaps and future
Abstract: Although FPGAs are limited in computation and storage resources, many recent analysis have showed that FPGAs can form a promising ground to the deployment and acceleration of deep learning applications given the parallelization potential of FPGAs and the pipeline-based architecture of neural networks. Moreover, FPGA-based acceleration enables to combine application flexibility and deployment optimization as explicit design steps. As an example about the potential of FPGAs, Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon Web Services EC2) F1 instances are Xilinx FPGAs reconfigured to accelerate data workloads supporting machine learning inference, providing 90x higher performance than CPUs. However, there is a lack of common architectural acceleration models, deployment methodologies and match-making tools when using FPGAs for modern software applications. This talk will highlight the potential of FPGAs as a means to deploy Edge AI and computing, and elaborate on the actual challenge and needs for (multi-) FPGA-based acceleration and deployment in terms of architecture, methodology and technology. Besides, it will also elaborate on how FPGAs stand out as promising sustainable computing platforms. The talk is inspired by the outcomes from our Embedded AI project.

Bio-Sketch: Jalil Boudjadar received the M.Sc. degree from Limoges University, in June 2008, and the Ph.D. degree from Toulouse University, France, in December 2012. He is currently an Associate Professor with the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Section, Department of Engineering. He is also a member of the DIGIT Research Centre. His research interests include design, validation and optimization of embedded systems, modeling and intelligent control for cyber physical systems, digitization, digital twins and adaptive runtime engineering, machine learning and embodied artificial intelligence, real-time systems and scheduling theories, and formal methods for security, safety and data analysis.

Dr. Farzin Shama
Islamic Azad University

Speech Title: A music utopia, based on cognitive life
Abstract: In the real word, the promise of equal access to information and opportunities has not been fully realized. There are still barriers to entry and participation in various fields, including education, careers, and social networking. While the internet has opened up new possibilities for connectivity and knowledge-sharing, there are still challenges to overcome in terms of infrastructure and access. In the realm of social networks, while platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn have connected people in unprecedented ways, there are still limitations and inequalities that persist. The rise of specialized social networks has provided new avenues for connection and collaboration, but there are gaps in representation and accessibility that need to be addressed. As we look towards the future, advancements in communication technology such as 4G, 5G, and satellite-based internet hold promise for expanding access and connectivity on a global scale. These developments offer hope for a more inclusive and equitable society where opportunities are more equally distributed."Musopia" is a music utopia, inspired by the idea of cognitive communications. The proposal aims to create a virtual music world where users can upload and share their homemade musical performances, providing equal opportunities for showcasing talent and connecting with producers globally. By leveraging artificial intelligence, specifically artificial neural networks, the platform seeks to foster collaboration, learning, and creativity in the music industry. Through real-world simulations, users can govern their musical territories and participate in a socialized community focused on fair representation and financial rewards for artistic efforts.

Bio-Sketch: Farzin Shama received the B.E., M.E., and Ph.D. degrees in electronics from Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran in 2009, 2012, and 2016, respectively. He is co-founder of Novin Basamad Company active in the electronics and measurement industries. He is an expert with up to dated engineering software such as ADS, MATLAB, AutoCAD, COMSOL, etc. He has designed various measuring sensors and electronic circuits for the industry. He also has collaborated with many companies to design the electrical installations for the buildings including hospitals (total area of 50,000 m2). He has been registered two patents in Iran. He is an assistant professor in Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran. He was the head of the electrical engineering department between 2018 and 2019. His research interests include artificial intelligence, complex circuits, and systems solutions, Analog circuits and design, microwave engineering, passive and active circuits design and fabrication, photovoltaic cell design, and neuron implementation. He was proud to achieve superior researcher in the engineering faculty of Razi University in 2011 and 2012. Also, he has been selected as the top student of Iran in the Ph.D. Degree in 2015. He has published more than 80 papers in international, domestic journals and conferences. He was proud to achieve a superior researcher in the engineering faculty of Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, in 2018.