ONGOING RESEARCH PROJECTS 2024-2026

Mathematical modeling for predicting the degree of homogenization in mixers for granulated solids and coffee - COLCAFÉ

This project aims to develop an innovative mathematical model to predict the degree of homogenization in blenders for granular solids used in coffee processing. Currently, coffee processing plants face critical challenges in efficiently producing homogeneous blends due to the lack of a quantitative approach to determining the optimal homogenization time. Operators' reliance on empirical methods leads to operational inefficiencies, high energy consumption, accelerated equipment wear, and significant variability in final product quality. To address these problems, the development of a mathematical model based on the phenomenology of the blending process, using the Discrete Element Method (DEM), is proposed. This model will allow the degree of homogeneity in blends to be accurately assessed and predicted, optimizing operating conditions to improve energy efficiency and ensure consistent product quality. The implementation of this model will reduce the dependence on empirical experience, allowing for more rigorous and scientific control of the blending process. This will result in higher-quality products at lower production costs, thus strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of coffee processing plants.


Control for the ink preparation process in 3D printing houses - ARGOS

This research proposal seeks to develop an automatic control system for the ink preparation process used in 3D printing of houses, carried out by Cementos Argos. Currently, the process is performed manually and with little automation, which generates variations in ink quality due to factors such as environmental conditions and uncontrolled exothermic reactions. The project proposes the use of mathematical models and virtual sensors to monitor and adjust process variables, ensuring the consistency and quality of the ink produced. The methodology includes the development of control algorithms, simulations, and testing in both simulated environments and real-life operating conditions.


Mathematical modeling of social dynamics leading to sustainable peace: demobilization, coexistence, and citizenship development.


RESEARCH PROJECTS APPROVED 2018-2024

Rigorous treatment of lower-level problems for the robust design of constrained nonlinear systems 

For the optimal design of dynamic systems, it is necessary to formulate an optimization problem in which the mathematical model representing the system is embedded. These mathematical models are subject to parametric uncertainty, and the trajectories of the involved variables (states and inputs) are constrained by conditions that must be guaranteed during the design process. Parametric uncertainty leads to an infinite number of constraints in the optimization problem, which must be solved with a finite number of decision variables. This is known as a semi-infinite problem. To solve this issue, reformulations are required to reduce the infinite nature of the problem into one that can be solved using standard techniques. This is where lower-level problems are proposed to perform this reformulation, and their proper solution ensures that the semi-infinite problem's solution is robustly feasible. This project aims to develop a solution algorithm for the lower-level problems, as current implementations only guarantee a local solution. 

Center of Excellence in Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence: http://www.quantumc.unal.edu.co/ceqcai.html#ceqcai 

The Center of Excellence in Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence is an initiative aimed at internationally establishing Colombia as a prominent player in the fields of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. This center seeks to achieve this objective through interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers from the National University and various national and international institutions. Its fundamental mission is to generate highly specialized and innovative knowledge in strategically relevant areas of global significance that will shape the course of science and technology in the current century. The center's vision is grounded in the cohesive integration of academic, research, and collaborative work with the sustainable advancement of the country.

Modeling, Monitoring, and Optimization of the Chocolate Conching Process. 2018-2020

Conching is one of the key processes in chocolate production, as it involves the elimination of undesirable volatile compounds and the attainment of the required viscosity and texture conditions for molding. Ensuring standardization and control of this process is crucial to reduce variations in the product's rheology, composition, and sensory performance. Currently, work is underway to develop a semi-physical, phenomenological-based model (SPFM) that dynamically relates variables involved in the conching process.


Plant-wide control on processes with narrow feasible region and recycles - Kaolin benefit plant. 2018-2021

In this project, the operation was controlled by considering the process as a whole, with the primary objective being the improvement of separation efficiency. To achieve this goal, the project was conducted in the following stages:

  

Model for predicting sausage hardness based on the structural and compositional changes in protein fractions. 2018-2023  

With the development of this research, the following achievements were made: