Events

Please join us for an upcoming lecture on 2 June 2025 at 3 – 4 pm (Eastern Time) by Dr. Benoit Derat, Senior Director for Systems Developments and Project Implementations, at Rohde & Schwarz, Munich, Germany. Date: Monday, 2 June 2025 Time: 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM (EST) Location: Room BA 2135, Bahen Centre for Information Technology, 40 St George St, Toronto How Close Can Far-Field Be? Getting the Best Out of Your Measurement Range Trends in modern wireless communications, including the use of massive MIMO and millimeter wave frequencies, have supported an increased deployment of electrically large antennas. This created technical and economic challenges as many EMC or regulatory tests require a far-field condition. This talk provides an overview of the recent findings in defining the shortest possible far-field test distance, depending on the size of the device under test, its operation frequency, the target metric and the upper bound acceptable measurement deviation. Practical ways are also described to determine the maximum antenna aperture size that can be tested in the far-field at a given frequency and for a maximum error, in an existing chamber with a defined range length. Speaker(s): Benoit Derat Room: BA 2135, Bldg: Bahen Centre for Information Technology, 40 St George Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2E4

Abstract : Active Alignment for Photonics Assembly is a key technology in high-precision manufacturing. It ensures sub-micron accuracy by continuously optimizing component positioning in real time. Unlike passive alignment methods, Active Alignment uses live optical feedback to achieve the highest possible performance. The technology is essential for applications that demand exceptional optical precision, including Camera modules & LiDAR systems, Laser beam shaping & external cavity resonators, Optical fibers & photonic integrated circuits (PICs), and Medical imaging & high-performance optics. This tutorial talk will provide an overview of Active Alignment for Photonics Assembly, key features and applications of the technology, and an opportunity for discussion with the presenter. Co-sponsored by: McGill Optica Student Chapter. Optech. Speaker(s): Sebastian Haag Agenda: 2:00 - 2:30 pm: free networking (on-site only) 2:30 – 4:00 pm: technical seminar presentation (hybrid) Room: MC603, 6th floor, Bldg: McConnell Engineering building, 3480 rue University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 0C3, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/487104

[] IEEE Toronto has reserved the venue for a private event. We'd love to connect with volunteers, members, and your family, friends, or coworkers for our 2025 spring social event. Your ticket will get you 2 drinks, snacks, and a chance to take some swings in the golf simulator. Tickets are limited and are heavily subsidized. The Sand Trap, 1306 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

I am happy to announce a Workshop on Sensing, Coding, and Communications to be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at the University of Toronto, Bahen Centre for Information Technology, BA 2135 from 9 AM to 4:15 PM featuring the following distinguished speakers: - Prof. Henk Wymeersch (Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden) - Prof. Shuowen Zhang (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China) - Prof. Liang Liu (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University) - ComSoc Distinguished Lecturer - Prof. Seok-Hwan Park (Jeonbuk National University, Korea) - Prof. Emanuele Viterbo (Monash University, Australia) - Prof. Hei Victor Cheng (Aarhus University, Denmark) - Prof. Li-Hsiang Shen (National Central University, Taiwan) Please RSVP your spot by June 10 using the following link: (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOrY5kW2zw7pXX3qwcMdLRB2aPuGlqs1hkgc8V0TBezeKSiw/viewform) Room: BA 2135, Bldg: Bahen Centre for Information Technology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4Y1R5

Recently, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has identified integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) as a primary usage scenario for the sixth-generation (6G) cellular networks in IMT-2030 Framework. As a result, future cellular networks will provide not only communication services, but also sensing services such as localization and tracking. However, how to exploit the existing communication infrastructure to effectively achieve sensing functions remains an open problem for 6G. In this talk, we will introduce the methodologies to leverage various types of communication nodes in cellular networks as anchors, including base stations, user equipments, and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, to perform ubiquitous sensing. Specifically, the advantages and disadvantages of each type of anchors will be listed, and the efficient solutions to overcome these disadvantages will be outlined. Apart from theoretical works, this talk will also present our latest achievements in building a 6G ISAC platform that operates at the millimeter-wave band. We will conclude this talk by discussing some promising future directions that will be beneficial to the transformation of the world’s largest communication network into the world’s largest sensing network. Please complete a FREE registration by June 10 to reserve your spot using the following link: (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOrY5kW2zw7pXX3qwcMdLRB2aPuGlqs1hkgc8V0TBezeKSiw/viewform) Speaker(s): Dr. Liang Liu , Room: BA 2135, Bldg: Bahen Centre for Information Technology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Progress Towards High Dimensional Quantum Communications in Turbulent Free-Space Channels Abstract: Quantum key distribution (QKD) enables information-theoretically secure communication, guaranteed by the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics. By leveraging quantum properties of single particles, most often photons, QKD allows two parties to establish a shared secret key with provable resistance against both classical and quantum eavesdroppers. While most communication today is done in a binary scheme using 1s and 0s, by pushing beyond 2 dimensions with high-dimensional (HD) QKD protocols, more than one bit of information can be encoded per photon. Additionally, secure quantum communications can be done even in noisy channels where 2-dimensional QKD would be impossible. Free-space channels, where the spatial degree of freedom of photons is available for encoding, like ground-satellite links and ground-ground links are clear candidates for the implementation of HD QKD. Free-space channels on Earth, despite the name, are not actually free due to fluctuations in the atmosphere called turbulence. We investigate the challenges and benefits of using spatial modes of light, in particular the Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) of photons to make HD QKD realisable in turbulent free-space channels. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Progrès vers des communications quantiques de haute dimension dans des canaux turbulents en espace libre Résumé: La distribution quantique de clés (QKD) permet une communication théoriquement sécurisée, garantie par les principes fondamentaux de la mécanique quantique. En exploitant les propriétés quantiques de particules uniques, le plus souvent des photons, la QKD permet à deux parties d'établir une clé secrète partagée avec une résistance démontrable aux écoutes électroniques classiques et quantiques. Alors que la plupart des communications actuelles se font selon un schéma binaire utilisant des 1 et des 0, en dépassant les deux dimensions avec les protocoles QKD haute dimension (HD), plus d'un bit d'information peut être codé par photon. De plus, des communications quantiques sécurisées peuvent être réalisées même dans des canaux bruyants où la QKD bidimensionnelle serait impossible. Les canaux en espace libre, où le degré de liberté spatial des photons est disponible pour le codage, comme les liaisons sol-satellite et sol-sol, sont des candidats évidents pour la mise en œuvre de la QKD HD. Les canaux en espace libre sur Terre, malgré leur nom, ne sont pas réellement libres en raison des fluctuations de l'atmosphère appelées turbulences. Nous étudions les défis et les avantages de l'utilisation des modes spatiaux de lumière, en particulier le moment angulaire orbital (OAM) des photons pour rendre le HD QKD réalisable dans des canaux turbulents en espace libre. Lukas Scarfe (PhD candidate at the University of Ottawa) About / A propos The High Throughput and Secure Networks (HTSN) Challenge program is hosting regular virtual seminar series to promote scientific information sharing, discussions, and interactions between researchers. https://nrc.canada.ca/en/research-development/research-collaboration/programs/high-throughput-secure-networks-challenge-program Le programme Réseaux Sécurisés à Haut Débit (RSHD) organise régulièrement des séries de séminaires virtuels pour promouvoir le partage d’informations scientifiques, les discussions et les interactions entre chercheurs. https://nrc.canada.ca/fr/recherche-developpement/recherche-collaboration/programmes/programme-defi-reseaux-securises-haut-debit NEW: In order to promote more open discussions/interactions, at the end of the presentation and Q/A, we will allow other experts in this field (quantum comm) to present very briefly their work (1 slide, 2 min max) or their company. Co-sponsored by: National Research Council, Canada. Optonique. Speaker(s): Lukas Scarfe, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/488212

Abstract: Vulnerabilities in OS and application software, although hard to eliminate, are well known. This talk will look a couple layers down in the stack to securing the lowest-level software in a device, often referred to as firmware, with the intent of blocking hard-to-find and hard-to-eradicate attacks classified as Advanced Persistent Threats. The talk covers why firmware is uniquely-difficult to protect, introduces the Root of Trust concept, and goes on to describe technology such as the Trusted Computing Group’s Trusted Platform Module (TPM), as a component to enhance a device’s ability to defend itself against APTs. Although low-level security issues can exist in any computing environment, this talk focuses on IoT and Industrial IoT applications. Speaker's Bio: Guy C. Fedorkow is a Distinguished Engineer at Juniper Networks. He received the BASc in Engineering Science and MASc in Electrical Engineering at University of Toronto, and went on to develop both packet-switching technology and high-throughput parallel computer architectures at Bolt, Beranek and Newman in Cambridge, MA. At Cisco Systems, he did hardware design and system architecture for cell-switching and high-scale internet service provider routers. Continuing at Juniper Networks, he has served as system architect for high-throughput Internet service provider products. Guy is currently working on trusted computing technologies to protect underlying computational infrastructure in router, switch and firewall products at Juniper Networks, and is a Fellow in the MIT Connection Sciences group. https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-fedorkow-3b65151/ Room: SF B560, Bldg: Sanford Fleming Building, University of Toronto, 10 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 3G4

Seminar by Prof. Anding Zhu (University College Dublin, Ireland) Speaker(s): Professor Anding Zhu, Room: 024, Bldg: Bahen Center for Information Technology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2E4

[] Join the IEEE Toronto Instrumentation & Measurement – Robotics & Automation Joint Chapter for a technical talk presented by Dr. Binyan Xu from University of Guelph. Monday, July 7, 2025 @ 10:30 – 11:30 AM (EST) Abstract: The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has expanded significantly over recent decades, driven by their flexibility, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and capability to operate in dangerous or inaccessible environments. With rising demands, UAV systems are increasingly expected to achieve higher levels of autonomy. Model predictive control (MPC), an advanced control methodology that leverages online optimization, provides notable advantages such as optimal performance, efficient handling of multivariable systems, and explicit constraint management, making it a promising solution for UAV control challenges. However, ensuring closed-loop performance with manageable computational demands remains challenging due to the highly nonlinear dynamics of UAVs and the computational complexity of MPC. This talk introduces a Lyapunov-based MPC framework designed specifically to address these challenges, offering stabilized and computationally efficient MPC strategies tailored for UAV applications. Applications of this framework, including trajectory tracking and formation control, will be demonstrated to illustrate its effectiveness. Additionally, the integration of this framework with other Lyapunov-based control techniques for handling unexpected actuator faults and communication disruptions will be discussed, highlighting its potential to further enhance UAV operational efficiency and reliability. Speaker(s): Binyan Xu, Ph.D., Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/487504

[] Join the IEEE Toronto Instrumentation & Measurement – Robotics & Automation Joint Chapter for a technical talk presented by Dr. Shideh Kabiri Ameri from Queen's University. Monday, July 21, 2025 @ 2:00 – 3:00 PM (EST) Abstract: Wearable devices for health monitoring are conveniently being miniaturized, their functionalities have been increased, and they are rapidly being integrated into our daily life. However, the current commercialized wearables are not mechanically compatible with soft, stretchable and dynamic skin which is normally the first point of contact to the body in wearables. This results not only in discomfort but also causes low fidelity and reliability during long term sensing. In this talk, Dr. Kabiri will discuss various novel approaches they have taken to address these issues. Their developed unconventional wearable devices for health monitoring have high sensing performance and low motion artifacts, and in some cases offer visual imperceptibility and non-intrusive sensing that satisfy the user’s privacy and mental comfort. Speaker(s): Shideh Kabiri Ameri, Ph.D., Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/486792

[] Join the IEEE Toronto Instrumentation & Measurement – Robotics & Automation Joint Chapter for a technical talk presented by Dr. Roya Fallah Firoozi from University of Waterloo. Monday, August 11, 2025 @ 1:00 – 2:00 PM (EST) Abstract: As a robot manipulates 3D objects and navigates within 3D scenes, it requires spatial reasoning to ensure safe planning. Recent advances in 3D scene representation, such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRFs) and Gaussian Splatting, provide high-fidelity digital twins of arbitrary real-world environments from multi-view images. In the first part of the talk, Dr. Firoozi will discuss employing these 3D visual fields augmented to 3D vision-language fields using internet-scale semantic representations from Vision-Language Models (VLMs) for open-vocabulary robot planning. As the robot interacts with other dynamic agents in the scene (multi-agent settings), it also requires temporal reasoning to ensure safe interactive planning. In the second part of the talk, Dr. Firoozi will discuss safe and fault-resilient planning techniques across two categories of interactive planning: (i) Model Predictive Control (MPC), where the prediction and planning steps are decoupled, and (ii) more abstract approaches such as game-theoretic planning, where these steps are tightly coupled. While MPC offers computational efficiency, game-theoretic planning enables more complex modeling of agents' preferences and their mutual influences. Speaker(s): Roya Fallah Firoozi, Ph.D., Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/487494

The development of innovative cybersecurity technologies, tools, and methodologies that advance the energy system’s ability to survive cyber-attacks and incidents while sustaining critical functions is needed for the secure operation of utility and industrial systems. It is essential to verify and validate the ability of the developed solutions and methodologies so that they can be effectively used in practice. Developing solutions to mitigate cyber vulnerabilities throughout the energy delivery system is essential to protect hardware assets. It will also make systems less susceptible to cyber threats and provide reliable delivery of electricity if a cyber incident occurs. This talk will describe how the developed solution can protect the power grid and industrial infrastructure from cyber-attacks and build cybersecurity protection into emerging power grid components and services. This includes microgrid and demand-side management components and protecting the network (substations and productivity lines) and data infrastructure (SCADA) to increase the resilience of the energy delivery systems against cyber-attacks. These developments will also help utility security systems manage large amounts of cybersecurity risk data and cybersecurity operations. For these developments to succeed, cybersecurity testbeds and testing methodologies are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of any proposed security technologies. The focus on developing cybersecurity capabilities in energy systems should span over multiple strategies: in the near term, midterm, and long term. Continuous security state monitoring across cyber-physical domains is the goal in the near term. The development of continually defending interoperable components that continue operating in degraded conditions is required in the midterm. Developing methodologies to mitigate cyber incidents to return to normal operations quickly is necessary for all system components in the long term. We will discuss R&D efforts in these areas centered on developing operational frameworks related to communication and interoperability, control, and protection. The importance of interoperability between smart grid applications and multi-vendor devices must be considered. The current grid comprises multi-vendor devices and multi-lingual applications that add to the complexity of integrating and securing the smart grid components. Standards development entities have been working with utilities, vendors, and regulatory bodies to develop standards that address smart grid interoperability. These include IEEE, IEC, NIST, ANSI, NERC, and others. In this presentation, we will conceptualize a comprehensive cyber-physical platform that involves the communication and power network sides integrating the cyber information flow, physical information flow, and the interaction between them. A data-centric communication middleware provides a common-data bus to orchestrate the system’s components, leading to an expandable multi-lingual system. We will present a hardware protocol gateway that was developed as a protocol translator capable of mapping IEC 61850 generic object-oriented substation event (GOOSE) and sampled measured value (SMV) messages into the data-centric Data Distribution Service (DDS) global data bus. This is necessary for integrating the widely used IEC 61850-based devices into an exhaustive microgrid control and security framework. We will also discuss a scalable cloud-based Multi-Agent System for controlling large-scale penetration of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and their infrastructure into the power grid. This is a system that can survive cyber-attacks while sustaining critical functions. This framework’s network will be assessed by applying contingencies and identifying the resulting signatures for detection in real-time operation. As a result, protective measures can be taken to address the dynamic threats in the foreseen grid-integrated EV parks where the developed system will have an automated response to a cyber-attack. In distributed energy management systems, the protection system must be adaptive. Communication networks assist in reacting to dynamic changes in the microgrid configurations. This presentation will also describe a newly developed protection scheme with extensive communication provided by the IEC 61850 standard for power networks to monitor the microgrid during these dynamic changes. The robustness and availability of the communication infrastructure are required for the success of protection measures. This adaptive protection scheme for AC microgrids can survive communication failures through energy storage systems. Co-sponsored by: Power Electronics/Industrial Electronics Speaker(s): Osama, Room: UA1140, Bldg: UA, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, L1G7K4