Since mid-2019, the “Modeling, Analysis and Control of dynamic Systems” research group (GdR717 MACS) has been reflecting on its activities and organization. This review was conducted by the board committee in link with the research teams involved in this scientific field. The outcome of this work is described in the mid-term evaluation dossier submitted to INS2I in early February 2021.
The GdR's activities can be broken down as follows.
Mapping and networking
MAC's new organization is based on a network of members teams whose scientific activities have been analyzed and mapped. This mapping is based on a breakdown of activities into 6 thematic areas.
- Modeling dynamic processes and systems: complexity, simplifications, uncertainties; data and knowledge,
- Decision systems: planning, optimal control; estimation, observation, diagnosis; maintenance, control, prognosis,
- Properties and performance: stability, robustness, optimality, human and social consequences,
- Methods: simulation, statistics, artificial intelligence, engineering, optimization, certificates,
- Digital tools: databases, enhancement software, scientific codes,
- Applications: Engineering from process to factory ; cyber-physical systems, robotics, transport, aerospace, healthcare, buildings, social networks; process engineering, fluid mechanics, biology...
This network of team members is complemented by the possibility for any individual to become a MACS affiliate. This affiliation gives access to all information on activities in the field and the possibility of interacting with the network. At last count, the GdR included almost 2,500 affiliates in 214 laboratories.
Support for young researchers
The GdR has put in place a number of tools to support young researchers in the field, including
- support and creation of thematic schools,
- encouragement and support for mobility within the network of MACS Teams during the thesis,
- prizes for the best thesis,
- post-thesis support,
- rapid integration into the GdR network for newcomers to the academic career.
Animation and outlook
The GdR has set up a tool called Actions MACS to encourage and lead working groups on emerging topics. Other tools are in the pipeline, focusing on the central methodological poles of the science developed within MACS.
Partnership with SAGIP
The GdR works in partnership with the Société d’Automatique de Génie Industriel et de Productique. The respective roles of the two entities in serving the scientific community are described in the joint MACS-SAGIP presentation given on November 25, 2021.
