Innovations Insight: students present inspiring projects
Interesting innovations were showcased at Fontys ICT's Innovations Insight; the showcase event where students presented their projects to a wide audience of industry experts, partner companies, fellow students and teachers. From an AI chatbot that helps buy (used) cars to a simulation of childbirth equipment for medical staff-the variety of ideas and applications was impressive.
In Tilburg, the event took place for the second time at MindLabs. Fontys ICT students collaborated with Fontys Journalism and the Practorate of ROC Tilburg to present their work. Enthusiasm was high, both among the students and visitors, who appreciated the creativity and social relevance of the projects. One notable project was the simulation of childbirth equipment. Students created a training module that allows medical staff to prepare for supervising critical deliveries. The project will be further developed in the coming semester; a great example of how education and practice go hand in hand.
In Eindhoven, as many as 130 projects were shown to interested parties at the Fontys ICT InnovationLab. The central themes-AI & Data, Immersive Technologies, Smart Systems, Future Software Tech and Cyber Security-are all areas of great significance for the future of technology, and also for the Brainport region. Each project contributes to society in its own way, whether to improve healthcare, promote sustainability or strengthen security.
One of the projects that attracted attention was AutoAdvisor, an AI chatbot that helps individuals buy (used) cars. Using AI, the process is simplified, allowing consumers to make a more informed choice. Student Gerke Reitz, the chatbot's creator and developer, proudly says: ‘I wanted to combine my two passions, cars and software engineering, in a project. I find it very valuable that I can express this creativity in my studies.’
In addition, Media students developed an app that helps equestrian athletes monitor the health and performance of their horses in real time. The project makes it possible to improve animal care during training and competitions; a strong example of how technology can make a difference in the sports world.
SPARC Awards: technological talent awarded
The event concluded in Eindhoven with the SPARC Awards, where the best and most innovative projects were awarded in three categories: technical innovation, social impact and creativity. The winning projects came from different corners of the ICT field, demonstrating the breadth of technological advances. For example, Game Design students developed a toolkit that allows companies to create their own mixed reality (AR) games; a groundbreaking project in the field of game technology. Another group of students worked with the Ministry of Defence on a drone simulator that helps improve the tactical skills of drone operators. The aim was to develop the most realistic simulation of military operations possible.
Another winning project was MeldMonitor, an application for the National Police that monitors, categorises and forwards social media posts as official reports. This project responds to the growing trend of young people increasingly asking for help through social media, rather than traditional channels. The project highlights how technology and social trends can reinforce each other to improve safety.
In short: we look back on a successful edition of the event. The innovations and projects on show not only demonstrate the talent being cultivated in the region, but also the impact education can have on society. The Fontys ICT InnovationLab and continues to develop into a breeding ground for new ideas that are shaping the future.
On 26 June, Innovations Insight returns. Would you also like to discover what the students have in store? Keep an eye on the website for more information!
The winners of the SPARC Awards