“The key lies not in the data itself, but in its ability to be turned into practical knowledge”
From signal to knowledge: how to move towards smart decisions in industry
TECNALIA and the University of Zaragoza are working together, through the TECNALIA-UNIZAR Chair, to transform signals into knowledge, so that decisions can be made that have an impact on industry. The two organisations held a conference in the Aula Magna focusing on one of the current challenges facing industry: how to transform data into useful knowledge and make decisions that truly add value.
The meeting took place in the Aula Magna of the University of Zaragoza, where Albert Einstein gave two lectures on the theory of relativity in 1923. More than a century later, the same space was used to debate a major challenge: how to turn data into knowledge that has a direct impact on our industry and its bottom line.
From signal to decision: Professor Antonio Ortega’s perspective
The keynote presentation, given by Professor Antonio Ortega, provided a clear overview of everything that happens and the key points to bear in mind, from capturing signals through to applying them in industrial decision-making to create quantifiable value for the company.
- The starting point is the signal. Sensors are used to capture variables from the physical world, such as vibrations or temperature, which are then converted into data. This data is processed and turned into information, identifying relevant patterns and behaviours.
- From there, machine learning models make it possible to go one step further: detecting anomalies, predicting failures and making recommendations.
- The big leap comes when all of this knowledge is integrated into the operation. Systems are evolving towards solutions that can support or automate real-time decision-making, thereby improving efficiency and reliability.
This approach relies on architectures that combine local (edge) processing, to provide an immediate response, and cloud platforms, which are capable of analysis and machine learning on a larger scale. Added to this are tools such as digital twins, which make it possible to simulate scenarios before taking action, and the leap forward that artificial intelligence has brought to all these developments.
Professor Antonio Ortega also encouraged us to look ahead and think about the future of technology and where we will be in 30 years’ time.
Case studies on industry, mobility and logistics
As was to be expected, the conference featured a number of success stories from the guest companies, demonstrating how these approaches are being applied in real-world contexts with measurable results.
- In the field of mobility, Jorge Piqueras (CAF) discussed how to extract knowledge from the data generated by transport systems and how technology can help prevent driving risks.
- From the industrial perspective, Sergio Santo Domingo (FERSA) outlined how data can be used to improve plant operations and move towards more efficient maintenance models.
- Meanwhile, Alejandro Herráez, from the ALIA Cluster, focused his presentation on urban logistics and how initiatives such as URBANDUM, which focuses on delivery vehicles and drivers, and SMART BAYS, which focuses on urban loading and unloading zones, are helping to improve transport processes in operational, economic and sustainable areas and optimise city management based on data.
Recognition of talent and a career that has left its mark
The conference also included the presentation of the Award for the Best Final Degree Project to Blanca Pérez Coderque for her work "Definition and analysis of metrics for the evaluation of virtual technologies”, in recognition of young talent in the field of engineering and her contribution to innovation and technology.
One of the most moving moments was the tribute paid to Professor Antonio Ortega in recognition of his career and his work as a teacher. It is thanks to Professor Ortega that we now have so many outstanding professionals at the University, at TECNALIA and at leading companies across Aragon.
During the event, our colleague Fernando Quero said a few words that aptly reflect the impact he has had over more than five decades, not only for his technical contributions, but also for his ability to educate and inspire.
In an environment where there is an abundance of experts and specialists, he drew attention to something less commonly recognised: the role of the teacher. As Fernando pointed out, “A teacher is someone who awakens vocations, who guides, who inspires, and who makes others believe they are capable of achieving more than they ever imagined.”
This legacy has also had a direct impact on TECNALIA. The inspiration that Professor Antonio Ortega instilled in professionals such as Fernando Quero and Juan Carlos Sánchez was the catalyst for a number of initiatives, the seed that, over time, grew into what is now TECNALIA Aragón, which boasts a fantastic team that continues to create value from its signal.
Anticipating change
Over the course of more than 50 years, Professor Antonio Ortega has also demonstrated a rare ability to anticipate change and lead the way in developing new technologies, which was also evident during the conference.
However, this recognition focused not just on his technical skills, but also on his human qualities. People who have worked and learnt from him praise his teaching style, his ability to inspire others, and the influence he has had on their careers.
Because some people leave a lasting impression, while others set out a path. Thank you to everyone who made this possible. Once again, the partnership between the University of Zaragoza and TECNALIA is an example of how it can make a real impact on people and businesses.