The project scientific topic refers to the contemporary and continuously developing field of optimization of the processes of microbiological synthesis, providing maximum product yield. The increasing complexity of the biotechnological production processes is a huge challenge for developing high-quality mathematical models and optimal control algorithms, as well as effective educational tools and training systems.
In the last years, the computer-based simulations integrated into training methodologies have been developed as cost- and time-efficient tools for improving the quality of professional training. They can be used to investigate processes by simulating the models in order to extend the fundamental knowledge about the processes and to develop control strategies aiming process optimization. Nowadays, very few such systems have been developed and implemented, limited to small-scale applications. The existing software tools for bioprocess model simulation do not consider identification procedures, which are a very difficult problem and a big challenge for traditional optimization methods. Lately, the use of metaheuristic algorithms gets more and more attention. Even more efficient results, when dealing with real-world and large-scale problems, can be achieved through hybrid metaheuristics.
The main scientific goals of the project are gaining knowledge of how the metaheuristic methods work, by theoretical and experimental studies; definition of new hybridizations of metaheuristic methods; development of specific adaptive control algorithms for fermentation processes (FP) aiming to optimization of the productivity of certain classes of FP.
The results of the considered project goals will be incorporated into a software system allowing access to contemporary high-level fundamental knowledge for modelling and control of bioprocesses. By transferring innovative scientific knowledge and technologies to the universities, the system could be considered as a tool for enhancing the quality of higher education in Bulgaria.
The general objective of the project is the development of an open source Interactive System for Education in Modelling and Control of Bioprocesses (InSEMCoBio) of foodstuffs produced by fermentation.
The main target group of InSEMCoBio are students majoring in biotechnology and bioengineering. A teaching programme including theoretical and practical courses related to InSEMCoBio will be developed.
The considered project tasks will be performed simultaneously given the interdisciplinary expert knowledge of the project team – biotechnologists, engineers, software developers and academic lecturers. As a result, the team will offer an innovative system for education InSEMCoBio allowing access to contemporary high-level algorithms through simple user actions, in order to solve certain problems.
The obtained scientific results will be published in specialized research journals with IF and SJR, indexed in the international scientific databases, and reported at seminars and international conferences within the thematic scope of the project goals and activities.
The project proposal corresponds to the Scientific Research Promotion Act in the Republic of Bulgaria with regards to Generation of new scientific knowledge and Promotion of the technological transfer and development of natural, technical, human and social sciences and innovations. The project is related to some of the current societal challenges (National Strategy for the Development of Research in the Republic of Bulgaria 2017 – 2030) as Enhancing the competitiveness and productivity of the economy and Improving the quality of life.