On April 1–2, 2025, the OBSeRVeD consortium convened at TU Delft for a highly engaging two-day progress meeting. With strong representation from partners across the consortium, the event served as a valuable platform for sharing results, discussing challenges, and shaping the way forward.
Day 1 – Updates, Insights, and Sensor Parameters
The meeting opened with a welcome by Sten Vollebregt (TU Delft), who introduced TU Delft’s role and broader contributions to technological innovation. This was followed by an OBSeRVeD project update, including highlights from recent publications and reflections from the Advisory Committee.
Each work package leader delivered concise pitches on current progress and hurdles. These sessions provided a clear snapshot of where each team stands and helped foster shared insight into project-wide priorities.
During the plenary session, partners discussed critical obstacles such as data standardization, cross-WP collaboration, and resource alignment. While significant progress has been made, the discussion underlined the need for stronger coordination between work packages to accelerate impact.
The poster session that followed showcased the work of PhD and PD researchers through short pitch presentations, generating fruitful conversations and connections.
Later, Murat Kabatas and Sten Vollebregt facilitated an interactive session on Sensor Measuring Parameters, exploring key performance criteria such as detection accuracy, robustness, and usability under practical farm conditions.
The day concluded with a lab tour at TU Delft’s sensor facilities and a relaxed dinner at Mooie Boules, fostering informal exchange among consortium members.
Day 2 – User Perspective, Roadmap Development, and Coordination
The second day began with a session titled “Developing an E-Nose – From Concept to Application”, led by Henk Hogeveen. This session focused on practical sensor use cases in poultry farming, particularly gut health and red mite detection. Participants explored design considerations from the viewpoint of different end users, emphasizing user-centric innovation.
In Poster Session Part 2, more researchers presented their findings, again demonstrating the active engagement and openness characteristic of the OBSeRVeD community.
The day’s central session was Collaborative Roadmap Development, facilitated by Cas Damen and Javier Ferreira González. The group worked on:
- Mapping interdependencies across the project
- Clarifying roles and assigning responsibilities
- Developing an actionable project timeline
- Aligning visions and expectations
Discussions revealed the need for a shared demonstrator platform, standardized measurement protocols, and improved tracking of contributions. Budget constraints and clustering of tasks were also addressed. The session concluded with a clear commitment: move from discussion to action by appointing task leads and tightening internal coordination.
Looking Ahead
As the event wrapped up with a second lab tour and informal drinks, the energy was clear: OBSeRVeD is moving full speed ahead.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to this successful and inspiring meeting. With new structures emerging and a shared roadmap underway, the OBSeRVeD project is steadily transitioning from design to implementation.
Stay tuned for next steps and continued progress.
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