Dissertation defence (Information and Communication Technology): MSc Jiaqiang Zhang
MSc Jiaqiang Zhang defends the dissertation in Information and Communication Technology titled “Robotic capabilities in distributed systems: Communication, localization, and resilience” at the University of Turku on 11 June 2026 at 12.00 (University of Turku, Educarium, Edu2, Assistentinkatu 5, Turku).
Opponent: Professor Juha Röning (University of Oulu)
Custos: Professor Tomi Westerlund (University of Turku)
Summary of the Doctoral Dissertation:
Robots are no longer only single machines working alone. Many modern robots depend on several computers, sensors, wireless connections, and sometimes cloud or edge services. This makes them more capable, but also more difficult to use reliably in real environments. My dissertation studies how robotic systems can work better when communication, positioning, and system recovery are considered together.
One key finding is that the way robots communicate has a strong effect on how well they work. There is no single communication solution that is best in every situation. A method that works well with a cable connection may not be the best choice over Wi-Fi or mobile networks. This means that communication should not be treated as a background technical detail. It should be planned as an important part of the robot system.
Another key finding is that reliable positioning depends on both the sensors and the environment. Robots and people may use satellite positioning outdoors, short-range radio signals indoors, motion sensors, or laser sensors to estimate where they are. My research shows that these technologies must be combined carefully. The best solution depends on where the system is used, what sensors are available, and how stable the surroundings are.
The dissertation also shows that robot systems can be made more resilient. In one study, a multi-robot system was designed so that failed software parts could restart automatically. This helped the system continue working instead of stopping immediately when something went wrong.
The impact of this research is practical. It helps engineers design robotic systems that are easier to deploy outside the laboratory, for example in cities, industrial sites, logistics, agriculture, or search and rescue. More reliable communication, positioning, and recovery can make future robots safer, more useful, and less dependent on perfect conditions.
