ExCurS scientific papers
1) Towards Sustainable Personalized Assembly Through Human-Centric Digital Twins
In journal Sensors, 2025, Vol. 25, Issue 18, Paper no. 5662
Authors:
Marina Crnjac Zizic, Nikola Gjeldum, Marko Mladineo, Bozenko Bilic, Amanda Aljinovic Mestrovic
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Split, Croatia
Summary:
This paper describes new trends in industry emphasize green and sustainable production on the one hand and personalized or individualized production on the other hand. Introducing new manufacturing technologies and materials to integrate the customer’s specific requirements into the product, while keeping the focus on environmental footprint, becomes a serious challenge. As a result, new production paradigms are developed to keep up with new trends: Industry 4.0 oriented towards new technologies and digitalization, and Industry 5.0 as a supplement to the existing Industry 4.0 paradigm, oriented to sustainability and the worker. Based on the research part of the Erasmus+ ExCurS project, particularly research focused on application and training related to digital twins, an advanced concept of organizational sustainability is presented in this paper. The concept of organizational sustainability is realized through the usage of key digital twin technologies aligned with human-centric approaches. A new prototype of a digital twin that optimizes an assembly system based on a developed algorithm and humanoid decision-making is provided as a proof of concept. The human-centric digital twin for industrial application is presented through a case study of personalized products. The main contribution of this research is the framework that combines digital twins, BPMN, and blockchain technologies in a unified system to optimize assembly processes. Digital twins provided quantitative insights into bottlenecks of the case study. BPMN provided a structured model of the assembly workflow, while blockchain ensured that every execution was securely recorded, immutable, and transparently accessible. For future research, the proposed methodology should be applied o additional case studies, including the real industrial case study. Furthermore, the ExCurS project should incorporate methodologies and tools other than digital twins, which will be further investigated to supplement the research already performed during the project.
Citation:
Crnjac Zizic, M., Gjeldum, N., Mladineo, M., Bilic, B., Aljinovic Mestrovic, A. (2025). Towards Sustainable Personalized Assembly Through Human-Centric Digital Twins. Sensors, 25(18), 5662. https://doi.org/10.3390/s25185662
2) Evaluation of the self-study modules developed in ExCurS project
In Proceedings of the International conference “Mechanical Technologies and Structural Materials – MTSM 2025”, Split 18-19.09.2025, Croatia
Authors:
Nikola Gjeldum, Bozenko Bilic, Marko Mladineo, Marina Crnjac Zizic, Amanda Aljinovic Mestrovic
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Summary:
This paper is based on a fact that Industry 4.0/5.0 era implies acquirement of new knowledge on digital, process improvement based on lean methodology technologies and digital transformation, sustainability and green approaches in the business. So, it represents a significant effort for the enterprises to acquire all this knowledge, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. Therefore, ExCurS project was initiated to bridge this knowledge gap by developing On-line platform with Self Assessment Tool, Concept of blended learning and Complementary resources. One of the most important aspects of this platform is more than 50 self-study modules that have been developed in the project. This paper uses scientific methodology of questionnaire to evaluate a dozen of self-study modules in a kind of validation process. Large sample of participants has been interviewed on the success rate of acquiring the knowledge of the self-study modules they’ve been learning. The results of analysis of 12 self-study modules are presented in this paper. The results gave insight into usage and relevance of each model, which can help further improvement of the module. The competence development evaluation was a kind of module validation, which showed that every module helped participant acquire above average knowledge on at least one out of three components: sustainability, digitalization, and lean management. So, it can be concluded that ExCurS project self-study modules have been successfully validated. The further research could be made with larger number of participants, and with some additional modules included.
Citation:
Gjeldum, N., Bilic, B., Mladineo, M., Crnjac Zizic, M., Aljinovic Mestrovic, A. (2025). Evaluation of the self-study modules developed in ExCurS project. In: Proceedings of the International conference “Mechanical Technologies and Structural Materials – MTSM 2025”, Split, Croatia. https://www.strojarska-tehnologija.hr/img/pdf/Conference_Proceedings_MTSM_2025.pdf
3) Hands-On Training for Human-Centric Digital Twin in a Learning Factory Environment (Restricted Access)
In Digital Transformation in Education and Artificial Intelligence Application. MoStart 2025. Communications in Computer and Information Science, Vol. 2609. Springer, Cham
Authors:
Marina Crnjac Zizic, Amanda Aljinovic Mestrovic, Boris Crnokic, Ivan Peko
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Split, Croatia / Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Computing and Electrical Engineering, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina / Faculty of Science, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Summary:
This paper is about transformation being driven by new technologies such as cyber-physical systems (CPS), the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing, that represent digitalization transformation covered by ExCurS project. Human-centric digital twins (HCDTs) play a crucial role in this transformation as they put people at the heart of digitalization. By integrating human data, ergonomics and real-time interactions, HCDTs not only optimize efficiency, but also improve workplace safety, employee well-being and adaptability. This approach supports the development of flexible, customized and resilient production systems that align with the goals of Industry 4.0 and sustainability. The learning factory environment at the University of Split, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Naval Architecture (FESB), provides an applied education platform that combines academic knowledge and modules developed in various projects (LOPEC, INSENT and ExCurS) with industrial requirements. This program offers students, and industry partners the opportunity to engage in real-world projects focused on the implementation of HCDT. Participants gain hands-on experience using sensors and CPS to collect and analyze data and use modeling and simulation tools to create digital twins. By working in a collaborative environment, students develop critical problem-solving skills while industry partners explore innovative solutions to optimize production processes. This hands-on training provides the participants with the knowledge and technical skills they need to integrate new technologies into engineering and industrial applications, driving innovation and competitiveness in the evolving manufacturing landscape. By integrating real-world applications, encouraging hands-on learning, utilizing advanced tools, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, educators can ensure that students develop both practical skills and a deep understanding of this transformative technology. Research also underscores the effectiveness of these methods. Studies show that students who use digital twin systems often perform better in critical thinking and academic achievement than their peers. These findings underscore the importance of using digital twin technologies in education to provide future engineers with tools to compete in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Citation:
Crnjac Zizic, M., Aljinovic Mestrovic, A., Crnokic, B., Peko, I. (2026). Hands-On Training for Human-Centric Digital Twin in a Learning Factory Environment. In: Vasić, D., Brajković, E. (eds) Digital Transformation in Education and Artificial Intelligence Application. MoStart 2025. Communications in Computer and Information Science, vol 2609. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-02801-3_8
4) Integrating SME-Oriented Training Tools into Higher Education: Applying the ExCurS Approach in a University Learning Factory
In Proceedings of the International conference “Manufacturing Innovation as a Driver of the Future 2025”, Zagreb 27.11.2025, Croatia
Authors:
Alexander Chukomin, Muhammad Hamid, Vera Hummel
Reutlingen University, Reutlingen, Germany
Summary:
This paper presents a teaching approach derived from the ExCurS – Excellence based Curriculum for the Improvement of LEAN & Green Management Skills in SME project, which links vocational education with labour-market needs. The project developed a self-assessment tool and modular e-learning platform enabling SMEs to identify strengths and weaknesses in Lean and Green Management and receive tailored training recommendations. In a university course, students simulated consultancy projects by applying this tool to fictional SMEs, interpreting assessment results, and designing customized training plans. The exercise fostered applied learning in organisational diagnosis, needs-based training design, and sustainability-oriented process improvement. Survey results indicate that students valued the realism of the format and reported increased confidence in translating assessment outcomes into training recommendations. These findings suggest that ExCurS materials are not only suitable for SME training but also provide a robust framework for experiential learning in higher education, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application. The project thus offers a scalable model for embedding vocational education tools into academic curricula, preparing students to support SMEs in strategic development and sustainability-oriented process improvement. However, these findings must be interpreted in light of methodological limitations such as the small and homogeneous sample and the reliance on self-reported learning gains. Future studies should include multiple cohorts or institutions to increase external validity. Second, the evaluation relied solely on student self-reports without complementary measures such as pre-/post-testing, rubric-based performance assessments, or comparison groups. As a result, the evidence reflects perceived rather than objectively measured learning gains. Third, the survey instrument included only single-item constructs, limiting the ability to perform reliability analyses. These methodological constraints should be addressed in subsequent iterations of the course design and evaluation.
Citation:
Chukomin, A., Hamid, M., Hummel, V. (2025). Integrating SME-Oriented Training Tools into Higher Education: Applying the ExCurs Approach in a University Learning Factory. In: Proceedings of the International conference “Manufacturing Innovation as a Driver of the Future 2025”, Zagreb, Croatia. https://eitmanufacturinghub.hr/manufacturing-innovation-as-a-driver-of-the-future/
5) An excellence based curriculum for the improvement of lean and green management skills in SMEs
In Proceedings of the International conference “Manufacturing Innovation as a Driver of the Future 2025”, Zagreb 27.11.2025, Croatia
Authors:
Nikola Gjeldum, Bozenko Bilic, Marko Mladineo, Marina Crnjac Zizic, Amanda Aljinovic Mestrovic
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Summary:
This paper is based on a fact that the transition to Industry 4.0 and the emerging Industry 5.0 era is forcing enterprises to continually adapt to rapid technological advancements, digital transformation, and sustainable business practices. This shift demands new skills and knowledge, presenting particular challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) striving to integrate digital and lean methodologies. To address these challenges, systematic methodologies capable of assessing current organizational maturity, identifying competence gaps, and supporting targeted learning interventions are needed. This paper presents a methodology that integrates a self-assessment approach based on the EFQM Excellence Models with a blended learning concept and an online digital learning platform. Developed through the ExCurS project, this methodology combines competence evaluation, automated training recommendations, and self-study modules to support continuous improvement and strategic capability development. The 12 core modules were pilot-tested by students and various companies resulting with responses from 75 participants collected through a questionnaire. Regarding understanding of specific topics, the modules were mostly rated as “Rather helpful” or “Very helpful”. Most participants rated the modules practical relevance as “High” or “Moderate”. For the learning formats used in the modules, most participants rated them as “Rather suitable” or “Very suitable”. The competence development evaluation showed that every module helped participants acquire above-average knowledge in sustainability, digitalization, and lean management. The lowest average score was 2,571 out of 5 for acquiring knowledge about digitalization in Module 9: Benchmarking/Continuous Improvement. It can be concluded that the ExCurS project self-study modules have been successfully validated and achieved a very good level of participant satisfaction. Further research will include a larger number of participants, and a new round of questionnaires after the modules are improved based on the analyzed feedback.
Citation:
Gjeldum, N., Bilic, B., Mladineo, M., Crnjac Zizic, M., Aljinovic Mestrovic, A. (2025). An excellence based curriculum for the improvement of lean and green management skills in SMEs. In: Proceedings of the International conference “Manufacturing Innovation as a Driver of the Future 2025”, Zagreb, Croatia. https://eitmanufacturinghub.hr/manufacturing-innovation-as-a-driver-of-the-future/