International Conference on Secure Systems Design and Technology Development (SysTechDev 2026)

25 Jun 2026, 00:30 → 26 Jun 2026, 21:55 Europe/Sofia

''Vasil Levski'' National Military University

Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria), Lyubomir Lazov (Green Future Technology), Artis Teilans (Green Future Technology)

The conference is organized by the Green Future Technology Engineering Centre, Latvia

The aim of this conference is to provide the platform for researchers to share the knowledge and ideas in the recent trends in the following disciplines: Defence and Security Technology, Engineering Sciences and Production Technology, Information Technology, Laser Technology, Sustainable Energy

We invite authors to submit abstracts and full original scientific papers which are NOT submitted/published under consideration anywhere in other conferences or journals.

Conference programme with links for remote connection

Poster-Template-SysTechDev2026.pptx

SysTechDev_2026_Call_for_Papers_8v.pdf

Template_2026_SysTechDev.docx

Thursday 25 June

08:30 → 11:00 Registration, coffee

11:00 → 11:20 Conference opening

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

Convener: Stancho Kaykov (Brigadier General, PhD, Rector of Vasil Levski Nationl Military University, Bulgaria)

11:20 → 12:00 Plenary session

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

11:20 Application of the Monte Carlo Method for Determining Evacuation Parameters from Settlements

This paper examines a possible application of the Monte Carlo Method for the approximate estimation of the number of people subject to evacuation during disaster situations related to flooding in populated areas. The crisis scenarios are simulated using software that reproduces river overflows resulting from controlled dam releases or dam wall failures, as well as from prolonged and intense rainfall events. The proposed method may also be applied to other types of crisis situations. The results can support the planning process in crisis management and assist in forecasting the resources required for an adequate response.

Speaker: Prof. Iliyan Lilov (Vasil Levski National Military Universiti)

11:40 Laser Technologies in Interdisciplinary Research. RTU Rezekne Academy Case.

Plenary speech

Speaker: Lyubomir Lazov (Rezekne Academy of Riga Technical University)

12:05 → 13:50 Poster session: Poster session I

Conveners: Desislava Petrova, Yanitsa Boyanova

12:05 Turning innovation into a product concept

The formation of the concept aims to further develop the innovative idea and transform it into a real innovative product intended for the market, as well as to bring consumer desires into a production-feasible product. Usually, a company has at least several innovative ideas for one product. The life cycle of innovations is presented, as well as the degree of novelty of products and processes as part of the industry. A model is presented for determining the degree of innovation through: the technical indicator - novelty; the indicator determining the consumer essence - applicability and commercial realization - market. The known technical, consumer and market indicators are used, which are redefined in view of the topic.

Speaker: Prof. Desislava Petrova

12:08 Methodology for Performing a Measurement System Analysis with Four Operators

A variety of factors have been shown to influence each measurement process, including environmental elements, the characteristics of the measured object, and the capabilities of the measuring instrument. These factors can be categorised into several overarching groups: external factors, the measurement object, the measuring instrument, and the operator. The present paper sets out a methodology for the evaluation of part quality in the domain of optical manufacturing. The methodology under discussion employs a measurement system analysis (MSA) method. Typically, MSA is applied to two or three operators; however, in this study, it is performed for four operators. In the course of the experiments, ten optical workpieces, lenses, are measured, with each lens undergoing three measurements. Each of the four operators measured the same set of lenses, employing the same measuring instrument. The measurement of identical parts and apparatus serves to eliminate the influence of the measuring instrument on the measuring system and to evaluate the influence of the operator. The objective of this work is to demonstrate the feasibility of employing MSA as a method for assessing the quality of more than three operators. To this end, four distinct analyses are implemented to assess the influence of each operator in relation to the others.

Speaker: Kliment Georgiev (Technical University of Sofia, branch Plovdiv)

12:11 Laser polished stainless steel use in food industry, a review

Strict hygiene procedures are necessary to provide food safety, which could be obtained by different methods. Most known and frequently used hygiene methods are washing with water, cleaning solutions and using mechanical devices such as bristles, scrapers and materials such as cloth with paper. In food processing used materials by itself could be self-cleaning, when they have repelling properties (hydrophobic) or are as smooth as possible (polished).

Surface condition plays significant role in food safe material hygiene. Rough surface and scratches tend to accumulate residue that is an environment for further microbiological activity. Due to these factors, it is required to produce and maintain smooth surfaces that are in direct contact with food. Since different materials are used in food processing, they have their own role and resistance against scratches and damage. Most commonly used material in food processing nowadays is AISI 304 and 316L grade stainless steel, which have optimal strength, corrosion resistance and durability against scratches.

Stainless steel surface for food processing also has to be smooth, in order lower risks of contamination, which is usually obtained by mechanical or electro-chemical polishing. Despite complicity and costs of mechanical polishing, this technology is still widely used as it has been established for decades. With development of new technologies, such as laser technologies, new methods of surface treatment are available. Over many years, different researchers have proved, that laser treatment could make surface more smooth, creating “polished effect”. Laser polishing of stainless steel surfaces could be a solution in future for achieving better hygiene in food processing.

Speaker: Arturs Abolins (Riga Technical University Rezekne Academy)

12:14 SYNTHESIS IMPACT PROTECTION IMPLEMENTED IN A PARTICULAR FACILITY THROUGH FRICTION DAMPERS

Proposed is a method for dynamic impact protection mechanisms undergoing strong percussive effects due to detonation devices used in special military equipment destined for geostationary navigation and targeting of artillery and aviation complexes. Developed algorithm synthesis of friction damper damping fluctuations in programming environment MatLAB 7.0 for Windows. Studied the functions of the situation and their transfer functions. Used management capabilities scale graphics to enhance the accuracy of reporting.
This publication has proposed a model of one mass shatterproof mechanism that can successfully defend indicative device, as any small-caliber artillery unit as the American model 60mm M224 and the Russian model 82 mm mortar battalion MX 82. Orientation shown in Figure 1 shockproof protection should be in the direction parallel to the mortar in order to be most effective protection i.e .: after each detonated mine blow that is aimed in the direction of plate based on land and residual vibrations that can be charged to the plate to take on a cycle, friction damper and spring.
In artillery units large caliber as 120 mm or greater, this type of shock-protection is ineffective and resorting to hydraulic or gas extinguishers fluctuations minute. They are mounted parallel to the mortar, such dampers are usually two, placed on 180̊ around the barrel of the artillery pieces. In self-propelled artillery units, must be used hydraulic dampers that are extremely effective in preserving the integrity of the chassis of the self-propelled unit. Such is mounted on the Bulgarian self-propelled mortars 2C9 "Tundzha" 120mm, produced 1986-1987. who are armed and are currently in the Bulgarian army.

Speaker: Marin Marinov

12:17 Methodology for testing bearing by the dampling oscillation method

Rolling bearings are machine components widely used in mechanical engineering. They are used under various operating and load conditions. Their widespread use makes it necessary to test them under certain conditions to study their behavior. This paper presents a methodology for testing bearings using the damped oscillation method. A specially designed test rig is used in accordance with the method described. The bearing is fixed to the stand by the inner strap and an axle with a movable weight, of the physical pendulum type, is fixed to its outer strap. Decay oscillations are read on an angular scale from 30° to -30°. Experiments have been performed and results obtained with different starting points (10°, 20°, and 30°) and different positions of the weight along the axis. The results obtained are processed using statistical software and presented in the form of graphs and tables. The methodology described can be used both in practice and for training students in laboratory conditions.

Speaker: Kliment Georgiev (Technical University of Sofia, branch Plovdiv)

12:20 Automated Loading and Unloading of CNC Vertical Milling Centers

The automation of loading and unloading operations for CNC vertical milling centres has become increasingly important due to rising production costs, labour shortages, and the pursuit of higher productivity and efficiency. This paper investigates the challenges associated with automating these processes, particularly focusing on optimising workspace utilization, reducing auxiliary times, and improving overall workflow in CNC production environments. An overview of CNC technology development and its current capabilities is provided, highlighting the essential role of G-code programming and the transition from manual to computer-aided manufacturing. Key issues such as the high cost of programming for small batches, difficulty in recruiting skilled operators, and the economic factors influencing automation decisions are analyzed. The study emphasises the critical importance of careful investment planning, including return on investment (ROI) considerations, productivity gains, and quality improvements. Practical guidelines for robot selection, end-effector design, and CNC-machine communication integration are proposed, along with a workflow model for automating part handling tasks. An experimental application on a VMC 1000L vertical milling centre demonstrates the practical aspects and challenges of implementing an automated loading/unloading system, including necessary machine modifications like door automation. The paper concludes that although automation offers significant benefits, it is not universally applicable; a detailed feasibility study based on batch sizes, product complexity, and financial evaluation is crucial for success. Hybrid approaches combining manual and automated operations are suggested for flexible and cost-effective manufacturing strategies. The study highlights the growing role of intelligent automation as a response to market dynamics, labour trends, and technological advancements in the CNC manufacturing sector.

Speaker: Penko MITEV (Technical University of Sofia, branch Plovdiv)

12:23 ANALYSIS OF OPTIMAL SHAPE OF CAM MECHANISM WITH ROLLER ROCKER

Cam mechanism are crucial for driving different types of drive trains. From simple mechanisms to metal cutting machines, combustion engines, filling machines and many other. Because many old machines do exist, and use such mechanism, a algorithm is proposed so that the position function can be obtain from a existing profile. Also a optimization is carried out so that the kinematics of the new mechanism meets criteria for smooth running conditions. A polynomial function of different orders are proposed for reverse engineering a existing profile from a filling machine.

Speakers: Ivan Tashev (Assistant professor - Technical University Sofia, branch Plovdiv), Mr Kiril Lengerov (Assistant professor - Technical University Sofia, branch Plovdiv)

12:26 Evaluation of the performance of classification algorithms in the QGIS system

The use of lake reeds for green energy is becoming an important component. It is important to determine the extent of reed areas, which in the future provides a forecast of the potential biomass volume and calculation of the carbon footprint. There are currently no significant results of research on the availability of reeds in Latvia. The main goal of this study is to develop a method for modeling the distribution of lake reeds to predict their availability in the future. The object of the study is satellite data of lakes, using the QGIS tool for modeling. The classification stage is very important, which allows distinguishing reeds from other surrounding objects. For the purpose of classification, several semi-automatic plugin algorithms were used: Minimum Distance, Random Forest, etc. The results of these algorithms were experimentally compared, and the most optimal one was selected.

Keywords — reeds, classification algorithms, modeling, satellite data, QGIS

Speaker: Prof. Peter Grabusts (RTU Rezekne Academy)

12:29 A methodology for the Strategic Defense Review and its governance system. (Prototype)

Abstract: This article is part of a series describing the capability-based defense planning model as the main methodology for conducting Strategic Defense Reviews in the Republic of Bulgaria. The proposed prototype follows a sequence of abstract steps for conducting Strategic Defense Reviews to achieve the goal of ensuring adequate defense capabilities for the armed forces. The article focuses on the planning process in the Ministry of Defense and the Bulgarian Army and includes a model of activities, information flows and links, communications, and other elements of the process. The management decision-making process is also described, including the functions of the participants in the process and the responsibilities for the different levels of management. In addition to this model, the decomposed activities of the planning process are presented up to the third level, which completes the design of the system.
The proposed methodology is based on modern scientific and analytical methods.
Keywords: Strategic Defense Review, Defense Planning, Complex Organizational System Model, Process Modeling.

Speaker: Ivo Radulov (Rakovski National Defence College, Sofia)

12:32 Human–AI Collaboration in Secure System Development: Decision Processes and Organizational Implications

The integration of artificial intelligence into software development is increasingly influencing how security-related decisions are made during the design and implementation of secure systems. While AI tools can support threat detection, risk analysis, and vulnerability identification, their effectiveness depends on how development teams interpret and integrate AI-generated insights into their decision processes. This paper examines the role of human–AI collaboration in secure system development, focusing on the interaction between AI-based decision-support tools and team decision-making in security-critical development environments. The study adopts a conceptual and analytical approach based on a review of current research in artificial intelligence, software security, and team-based decision-making. Particular attention is given to how AI-generated insights support tasks such as threat modeling, security architecture design, and risk assessment. The paper contributes by proposing a conceptual framework describing the interaction between human expertise and AI-supported decision processes in secure software development teams. It further identifies key organizational factors—such as trust in AI recommendations, transparency of AI models, and team coordination—that influence the effective integration of AI into secure development practices.

Speaker: Mr Boris Gramchev

12:35 Multimodal Approach to Teaching English as a Factor in Improving Engineering Students’ Research Skills

In the context of the internationalisation of higher education and the growing role of English as a global language of science and technology, the development of both communicative and research skills among engineering students has become increasingly important. This study investigates the effectiveness of a multimodal approach to teaching English as a factor in improving engineering students’ research skills. A quasi-experimental design was employed involving 90 undergraduate students of automotive engineering at Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University (Ukraine). The experimental group participated in a multimodal English course integrating audiovisual translation, digital learning resources, English for Specific Purposes, and extracurricular research activities, while the control group received traditional language instruction. The effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using three indicators: information search and analysis skills, English communicative competence, and research self-efficacy. Statistical analysis using Pearson’s chi-square test demonstrated significant improvements in the experimental group compared to the control group. The results indicate that the multimodal approach significantly enhances students’ information literacy, communicative competence, and confidence in conducting research. The findings highlight the potential of multimodal language instruction to support the development of academic and research competencies among engineering students.
Keywords: audiovisual translation, engineering students, foreign language teaching, multimodal approach, research skills.

Speaker: Nataliia Saienko (Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University)

12:38 ENERGY COST PRESSURE, AGRICULTURAL INPUT PRICES AND FARM ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN SELECTED MARKET FARM TYPES: COMPARATIVE EVIDENCE FROM BULGARIA AND THE EU-27

The paper examines the relationship between energy cost pressure, agricultural input prices and farm economic resilience in Bulgaria compared with the EU-27 average. The empirical design combines three groups of official data sources: Eurostat non-household electricity prices, Eurostat agricultural input price indices, and Farm Sustainability Data Network (FSDN) standard results for selected specialised market farm types. The focus is on Bulgaria and the EU-27 average, with farm-type outcomes compared, energy-price dynamics analysed, and agricultural input-price developments traced for 2020–2024. Methodologically, the study applies a comparative descriptive and relational approach. Farm-type indicators are derived through weighted aggregation across economic size classes.  Four indicators are used to assess resilience: income margin, energy cost share, intermediate consumption intensity and liabilities-to-assets ratio.

The results show that the Bulgarian case cannot be interpreted as a uniform deviation from the EU-27 average. Instead, the evidence points to a strongly differentiated resilience profile across farm types. Milk and other grazing livestock display comparatively strong resilience, granivores improve between 2021 and 2023, while fieldcrops and especially mixed farms weaken markedly by 2023. The findings suggest that the main transmission mechanism operated less through direct energy cost share and more through broader pressures on intermediate consumption and financial sustainability. The paper concludes that agriculture should not be treated as a homogeneous sector when assessing resilience to energy and input price shocks, and that policy responses should be more sensitive to farm-type heterogeneity.

Speakers: Ivan Byanov (University of Veliko Tarnovo “St. Cyril and St. Methodius“), Dr Nevena Byanova (University of Veliko Tarnovo “St. Cyril and St. Methodius“)

12:41 Modeling and optimization of material flows in a section for machining in the presence of alternative technological processes

An important factor in increasing productivity and optimal use of resources in mechanical engineering production is the effective organization of material flows. Under the conditions of the modern production systems, alternative technological processes for machining parts often exist, which creates opportunities for more flexible production planning, complicating, at the same time, material flows and equipment load management.
The present article examines the possibilities for material flows optimization in a section for machining, in order to increase the efficiency of the production system. It analyzes the peculiarities of the organization of production in the presence of multiple technological routes and different types of machine tools and proposes an approach for modeling the production area by representing the technological processes as a graph and a matrix of the material flows between the individual workplaces. A multi-objective optimization problem is formulated, aimed at minimizing the transport distances, technological times and volume of the work in progress.

Speaker: Silviya Salapateva (Technical University of Sofia, Branch Plovdiv)

12:44 Possibilities for increasing the accuracy of active control in turning on CNC machine tools through adaptive accuracy control

In clean and fine turning on CNC machine tools, it is advisable to carry out active control by measuring the parts after their processing. With this type of active control, accuracy is highly dependent on dimensional dispersion caused by random factors. A solution for reducing these errors and increasing the accuracy of active control is the use of adaptive control of roughing accuracy.

Speaker: Silviya Salapateva (Technical University of Sofia, Branch Plovdiv)

12:47 Increasing the accuracy of machining by means of complex process management through active and adaptive control

One of the main indicators of the manufactured parts quality and the efficiency of the technological processes in mechanical engineering is machining accuracy. During the machining process, errors of various nature occur, which can lead to deviations from the specified dimensions and geometric parameters. This requires the implementation of modern approaches to controlling and managing the machining process.
The paper presents a model for complex reduction of the dimensional errors arising in the process of turning both from random and systematic factors. No specialized sensors are needed in the machine to implement the method. In result of applying control over the workpieces and the machined parts, a computer system, using a database of mathematical models of the process, controls the CNC system of the machine.

Speaker: Silviya Salapateva (Technical University of Sofia, Branch Plovdiv)

12:50 The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Educational Technologies for the Purposes of Higher Education – Experimental Research

This research focuses on the role of artificial intelligence in educational technologies in higher education. The modern vision and needs of current and future professions set new requirements for the training of future specialists related to the use and application of high-tech training resources. The relevance of the issues under consideration stems from the need to adapt the training to the modern requirements of professional practice. In Bulgaria, the application of artificial intelligence in higher education is developing rapidly, but there are areas where it is still in its early manifestation process. The purpose of this study is to analyze the development of educational technologies using artificial intelligence and to present the results of a pilot experimental study among students, aimed at upgrading the previously applied learning technologies by implementing artificial intelligence. The results of the experimental study show an increase in student motivation and learning efficiency through the use of AI for learning purposes.

Speaker: Zhaneta Tsoneva (Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:53 Pitot Tube Simulation: A Key Tool for Real Engineering Applications in Marine Engineering and Mechatronics

The Pitot tube is a classical and widely used instrument for measuring fluid flow velocity, with applications across various engineering fields, including marine engineering systems and modern mechatronic applications. This paper presents a numerical simulation of a Pitot tube performed using ANSYS Fluent, aiming to demonstrate its operating principle, measurement accuracy, and significance as both an educational and research tool.
The adopted approach enables observation of velocity and pressure distribution around the tube, providing a deeper understanding of fluid flow phenomena and their relation to real-world measurements. Within the simulation framework, different flow regimes are analyzed, along with the influence of geometric parameters and the Reynolds number on velocity determination accuracy. The results clearly illustrate the regions of high and low pressure that define the tube’s readings, confirming the reliability of the method for engineering applications.
The proposed methodology has strong educational value, as it allows students from the “Ship Machines and Mechanisms” and “Mechatronics” programs to visualize real fluid flow processes that are often difficult to observe experimentally. Through simulation, they acquire skills in CFD software operation, numerical data interpretation, and the practical application of theoretical knowledge. Thus, the Pitot tube becomes not only a measuring device but also a key educational instrument, bridging fluid mechanics theory with real engineering practice and promoting analytical thinking among future engineers.

Speaker: Ms Cvetelina Velkova (Naval Academy N.Vaptsarov Varna, Bulgaria)

12:56 WHY ECONOMIC SECURITY IS NATIONAL SECURITY. ECONOMIC DETERMINISM IN THE U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY 2025

The text analyzes the fundamental link between economic stability and national security, focusing on the 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy. This strategy reaffirms the view that the economy is the foundation of power and that military superiority is impossible without a strong industrial base, technological innovation, and energy independence. Furthermore, it posits that economic sovereignty and the well-being of the American middle class are key to the nation's global influence and prosperity. The evolution of this concept is examined from the Reagan era to the present, highlighting the transition from globalism to economic nationalism under the "America First" motto.

Speaker: Svetoslav Velkov

12:59 CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE RISK ASSESSMENT APPROACH

Abstract: This paper is the second in a series that describes the Model for risk management of Critical Infrastructure (CI) of the Republic of Bulgaria. The first one focuses on activities of developing rules and proposing a mathematical apparatus for identifying critical infrastructures and their assets. The present focuses on the activities for improving protection of critical infrastructures and in particular a methodology for the risk assessment of CI assets of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) of the Republic of Bulgaria is presented. It defines the stages through which this process takes place and proposes a mathematical apparatus including analytical expressions for risk assessment. The methodology reveals how experts can measure, document and report risk in this area. It uses universal mathematical models for risk assessment based on adapted scientific theories and methods making it applicable to risk assessment for other CI assets in Bulgaria.
Keywords: risk, critical infrastructure, risk management.

Speaker: Mr Zarko Zdravkov (Rakovski National Defence College, Sofia)

13:04 University Libraries in the Digital Ecosystem of Cultural Memory and Strategies for Digitization, Access, and Knowledge Sharing

Abstract: Preservation and provision of access to documentary cultural heritage constitute a significant challenge in the context of contemporary digital transformation. The development of information technologies creates new opportunities for the digitization, preservation, and dissemination of archival and library resources, as well as for expanding access to knowledge. University libraries play an important role in building the digital ecosystem of cultural memory by supporting the processes of digitization, management, and provision of access to information resources. Through the implementation of modern technologies and the development of institutional cooperation, they contribute to the more effective preservation and promotion of documentary heritage. The publication examines the possibilities for developing strategies for digitization and management of information resources in university libraries, as well as the importance of cooperation between different cultural memory institutions. Emphasis is placed on the role of university libraries as an intermediary in the processes of knowledge exchange and in ensuring broader access to cultural heritage in a digital environment.

Keywords: documentary cultural heritage, digitization, university libraries, cultural memory, information resources

Speaker: Dr Trayana Petrova (ULSIT)

13:07 The key role of SMEs in the European defence ecosystem with emphasis on Quantum technologies

The research paper focuses on the important role of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the development of the European defence ecosystem with emphasis on quantum technologies, incl. with dual use. The research is based on interdisciplinary approach. In addition to the methods of analysis and synthesis of primary and secondary sources of information, generalization, inductive and deductive research approach, the study uses Joseph Schumpeter’s theory from the entrepreneurial ecosystem, which claims that SMEs play a crucial role in economic development through “creative destruction” and innovation. The research is based on the key strategic documents of the European union such as the White paper for European defence - Readiness 2030, the Quantum Europe Strategy, the Enrico Letta's Report on the Future of the Single Market, the Mario Draghi’s report on EU competitiveness, the Sauli Niinistö’s Report on Strengthening Europe’s Civilian and Military Preparedness and Readiness as well as the Global risks report of the World Economic Forum. The results of the study identify quantum technologies both as innovation drivers, but also as risk multipliers across many domains - security, defence, geopolitics. At the same time contrary to the perception that the defence sector is mainly reserved for traditional defence contractors and large established firms, the study shows that SMEs act as key accelerators of dual-use technological innovation and development of market niches due to their agility, flexibility, cross-sector adaptability, and closer ties to civilian markets, making them an important player in the process of building strategic autonomy for the EU. In conclusion, the publication draws certain conclusions and recommendations for the importance of social dialogue and SMEs’ integration into EU defence-industrial ecosystem through their participation in quantum technologies, as it is essential for European defence market and competitiveness.

Key words: Quantum technologies, AI, EU defence, SMEs, competitiveness, strategic autonomy

Speaker: Monika Panayotova (University of National and World Economy)

13:12 Commercialisation Potential for Scanners in Wood Processing. Cross-Cutting Optimizing Scanner for Aspen and Black Alder

Increased competition in the international wood export markets, is vitally important for European wood processing companies. To ensure further competitive advantages digitalisation of wood processes is one of the contemporary strategies to ensure higher efficiency (reducing losses of useful material and improving quality), but also increasing productivity in order to reduce manual labour costs and eliminate "bottlenecks" in the overall production process. Findings reveal significant adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies enhancing processing speed and quality through AI-driven defect detection and robotic automation, achieving cycle time reductions exceeding 45% and defect remediation time cuts up to 60%. Material innovations and additive manufacturing improve mechanical properties and support sustainability, though scalability challenges persist. Circular economy principles are increasingly integrated via digitalisation of wood processing and waste valorisation, yet practical implementation faces economic and technology barriers. The aim of the paper is the commercialisation of cross-cutting optimizing scanner for aspen and black alder allowing to optimize order real-life parameters improving material combination and reducing waste. In addition, it is necessary for the company, using the statistical value of the material, to be able to determine what the possible costs of any order are. The findings are underlining the promotion of the digital transformation and increased competitiveness: enhanced useful yield of high-value material/reduction in material losses, reduction in manual labour associated with physical effort (the physical work of operators has been facilitated, and the sawing speed has been increased by 20%). The expected digital transformation impact has significant commercialisation potential, the development of such a new technology is contributing to the competitiveness and technological base of the forestry sector in European Union.

Speaker: Vladimirs Šatrevičs (Riga Technical University)

13:15 Algorithm for finding optimal placement of objects in a machining section in the presence of alternative technological processes

In the context of digitalization of production and the development of the Industry 4.0 concept, the optimization of production processes and the effective organization of production areas are gaining increasing importance. An essential task in the design of production systems is the optimal placement of the technological equipment in order to minimize the material flows, reduce transport distances and increase the efficiency of the production process. This task is further complicated in case of presence of alternative technological processes, allowing for different routes of parts processing.
Based on a developed model, an optimization problem is formulated in the present paper, aimed at minimizing the transport distances and the time for parts transportation during the process of production. To solve the problem, an algorithm, based on heuristic methods for searching for optimal equipment placement is proposed. Computational experiments have been conducted, which illustrate the possibilities for reducing the intra-production transport, and thus for more even loading of the machines and shortening the production cycle.
The proposed approach corresponds to the principles of the Industry 4.0 and creates conditions for integrating intelligent planning and optimization methods into modern production systems.

Speaker: Silviya Salapateva (Technical University of Sofia, Branch Plovdiv)

13:18 Development of Cross-Cutting Optimizing Scanner for Aspen and Black Alder Boards

In the paper, machine learning knowledge is transferred to wood processing industry. А universal Machine Learning system has great potential for the scalability in wood processing industry. In order to increase the yield of high-quality material and reduce the influence of subjective factors in the assessment of the quality of the wood boards, a machine learning model was trained as part of the research. The model was trained on a large set of aspen and black alder board samples, including subjective assessments of the acceptability. This approach ensures that the ML model is able to perceive and standardize different defect compositions that are considered to meet the specified quality requirements. As a result, a more accurate and consistent interpretation of wood defect recognition is achieved, significantly reducing the variation caused by the human factor along with proper feeding mechanism increase the yield of high-quality material. We proved that using ML for wood defect detection allowed to achieve a fully developed and sustainable defect recognition model within 3 months testing period. Identifying wood defects in the production of aspen and black alder boards is both a technologically complex and subjectively influenced process. By combining the assessment of defect intensity, area, structure and location, the model ensures a uniform quality standard throughout production. This reduces unjustified board rejection, improves material utilisation rate and promotes a more stable output of high-quality material

Speaker: Vladimirs Šatrevičs (Riga Technical University)

13:21 Laser marking on samples with chromium-nickel coating

In the 21st century, laser marking is increasingly used. Very good results are achieved when working on resistant materials such as plexiglass or chromium-nickel samples, where good color marking is also achieved.
Products that are made of or coated with chromium-nickel are used in the manufacture of a number of parts and products. This is especially true for products that are produced in the enterprises of the military-industrial complex. Marking such products in the current complex international situation and the conduct of military operations in Ukraine, Israel, Yemen and other countries will make tracking military production a much easier task. The experiments were conducted on thin samples of chromium-nickel and the change in marking quality with changes in the speed and power of the laser and the roughness of the material were studied. The results obtained were analyzed and this will provide an opportunity both for using the results obtained and for continuing research. These studies were conducted at the Laser Center of Rezekne Academy of Technology during an Erasmus internship.

Speaker: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

13:24 Analysis of models for estimating electricity losses in distribution networks

In recent years, low-voltage networks have become particularly attractive. More and more small-capacity solar power plants are joining them. The motivation that owners receive is a combination of the affordable price of the systems, a simplified procedure for obtaining a design and construction permit. The creation of energy independence is also not in last place.
Despite their local impact, all of them taken together have a significant impact on the operating parameters of the electrical networks. Power losses and, respectively, electrical energy are among the main operating parameters that will be affected.
The most commonly used methods for estimating electrical energy losses in low-voltage distribution networks are examined, depending on the information provided. It is proposed to take into account the seasonality coefficient, which would increase the accuracy of the models.
Depending on the operating conditions, the network configuration and its declared voltage, different methods are applied to calculate the network operating parameters, such as voltage levels in the nodes, power losses and electrical energy.

Speaker: Misho Matsankov (TU-Sofia, Sofia Bulgaria)

12:05 → 13:50 Defence and Security Technology: DS I

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1118: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395454791825767?p=Ro1nKtRb4wLo0HQQ6h

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1208: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria), Plamen Atanasov ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

12:05 PSYCHOLOGICAL QUALITIES OF STRATEGIC LEADERS AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE FOR PROFESSIONAL SELECTION IN THE NATIONAL SECURITY SYSTEM

This report analyzes the role of psychological qualities of strategic leaders as a critical determinant of the effectiveness, resilience, and legitimacy of the national security system. Security is approached not only as an institutional and normative framework but also as a function of the human factor, which plays a central role in strategic decision-making under conditions of uncertainty, risk, and crisis. Particular emphasis is placed on the need to integrate scientifically grounded psychological criteria into the professional selection of leadership personnel, including emotional and moral resilience, cognitive flexibility, self-regulation, and reflexivity. The analysis is grounded in contemporary theoretical perspectives on strategic leadership and management psychology and highlights the importance of a systematic psychological selection framework for the sustainable functioning of security institutions.

Speaker: Mr Kristiyan Petrov

12:20 The Crisis Around Greenland and the Test for NATO and the EU: Legal Limits of Territorial Claims and Tools Against Coercion

The study analyzes the geopolitical crisis surrounding Greenland as a fundamental test of the sustainability of the international legal order and the institutional capacity of NATO and the EU. The focus is on the conceptual clash between the outdated model of “territory purchase” and the modern liberal legalism affirming the right to self-determination of the Greenlandic people. The methodology includes a legal and normative analysis of the 2009 Act on Greenland Self-Government, a comparative study of the evolution of the Monroe Doctrine, and an analysis of cases of geoeconomic coercion in the Arctic. The results of the study identify critical risks arising from the increased Russian-Chinese strategic cooperation and the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to foreign investment. The main conclusions reject the treatment of territory as a commodity and emphasize that sovereignty is inextricably linked to the will of the population in Nuuk. The article recommends, on the one hand, institutionalizing NATO's role by strengthening its European pillar and eliminating the “alliance dilemma” by conducting a specialized Arctic mission, and on the other hand, activating the EU's defense mechanisms against economic coercion and strictly adhering to the democratic procedures for changing the status, as set out in the 2009 Act. The study establishes Greenland as an active security entity, whose defense is a litmus test for the ability of Western allies to uphold the principle of sovereign equality and to implement an innovative approach in a “zero to one” perspective.

Speaker: Dr Daniel Berchev (Vasil Levski National Military University)

12:35 Compact Critical Infrastructure Active Drone Protection System – Conceptual Design

The ever growing threat of hostile and unauthorized drones drives the need for counter-action, starting with early detection and reaction. The low cost and availability of small and low flying drones increases both their extensive use in warfare and the accidents with them in civilian settings. Efficient and adequate counteraction requires a detailed study of the threat and a retrospective analysis of potential solutions to the problem. While some structures a robust enough for the small drones, large and valuable assets are both exposed and valuable. Some of these are long pipelines and power transmission lines of many kilometers, while others, like solar fields and antenna arrays and others are localized and compact. The presented paper focuses on the latter, while further work will continue for longer linear infrastructure.

Speaker: Dr Zhivo Petrov (Georgi S. Rakovski National Defense College)

12:50 Assessment of EU Digital Identity Wallet from Security Perspective

The EU Digital Identity Wallet marks a pivotal evolution in Europe’s approach to identity management, embedding security by design into a system that will serve more than 400 million citizens under the eIDAS 2.0 framework. By 2026, all Member States must deploy a certified wallet capable of storing and using government‑issued digital credentials, a response to rising identity theft and cyberattacks that have caused billions in losses across the continent. The architecture minimizes attack surfaces, classifies sensitive data, and enforces strict access controls, while national transitional certification schemes and the forthcoming European Common Certification Scheme ensure a consistent, high level of protection across the Union. At the same time, the initiative strengthens the EU’s digital sovereignty, reducing reliance on private identity providers and supporting the development of a secure, interoperable digital state. Yet this transformation also brings significant risks and challenges, including the need to balance stringent security requirements with usability, ensure cross‑border interoperability, and maintain public trust in the face of evolving cyber threats. Together, these dynamics position the EUDI Wallet as both a cornerstone of Europe’s digital future and a complex security undertaking that will require sustained vigilance and coordination.

Speaker: Dr Alexander Yankov (South-West University "Neofit Rilski")

13:05 Climate-Induced Migration to the EU: Legal Protection Gaps and the Role of Media Narratives

Climate change, along with political persecution, military conflicts, and poor socio-economic conditions, is one of the key drivers of forced migration. This issue has become increasingly relevant, especially in light of rising global temperatures, storms, droughts, sea-level rise, and resource depletion. However, international law currently offers limited protection for climate-displaced persons. This paper has three specific objectives: first, to examine the current state of immigration in the European Union (EU) by analyzing official Eurostat secondary data; second, to identify gaps in migration and environmental law; and third, to examine the dominant media narratives surrounding climate-induced migration and the ways in which they shape public understanding and decision-making related to this phenomenon. By doing so, it aims to formulate specific, comprehensive, rights-based recommendations to address the humanitarian and legal challenges of climate-induced migration, while also promoting more accurate, responsible and contextualized media coverage of the phenomenon.

Speaker: Vasil Pavlov (University of National and World Economy)

13:20 Criminalization as a tool for ensuring national security in the modern rule of law. ( Short logical statement )

The modern state of law is a state of clear legal rules and justice. In such a democratic and humane state, national security is explained, regulated and protected by law as a significant social benefit. Moreover, national security is logically understood as one of the most valuable legally protected goods. National security and its protection arise directly from the law. The rule of law itself introduces rules for measuring and achieving national security, but it is also obliged to comply with these rules. Therefore, lawmaking can be presented as one of the basic methods for guaranteeing national security. And criminalization as one of the basic manifestations of criminal lawmaking.
This publication analyzes and logically traces the impact of the criminalization of acts, and not so much the differentiation of criminal liability and the optimal criminal procedure on the quality of national security. This is relevant and important to do, because through criminal lawmaking, national security can be created, protected, enhanced and managed in a subtle, direct, nuanced, effective and long-term manner in a modern constitutional state.
Criminalization is one of the most important processes in the rule of law, because it is directly related to the creation and protection of national security. This is so, because through criminalization the most dangerous acts for the existence of national security are declared crimes. Human behavior that has gone through the process of criminalization becomes a crime, the commission of which is harmful to the existence of national security and is therefore subject to criminal prosecution. Through criminal prosecution, national security is restored and expanded. Any criminalized behavior is undesirable and harmful to the peaceful existence and development of the “man-society-state” system, and should be guided, including with scientific methods and means.

Speaker: Dr Lyuboslav Lyubenov (University of Ruse "Angel Kanchev")

13:35 Two approaches to seeking public support in addressing challenges in the field of international security

In the contemporary field of international affairs, the China’s economical, geopolitical, and military rise is a significant factor in the challenges of international affairs. The focus of this study falls on the response which these circumstances find in the context of national security in two states of established economical and geopolitical standing. In this scientific framework, international security is situated as the object of the study. The subject of the research is the complex of activities undertaken by governments to build transparency in the public space about their international affairs. The aim of the study is to explore a discovered approach for overcoming the latency of the public opinion, relative to China’s rise. Presented are two principally different policies, which were implemented in the USA and in Russia, in answer of response to the challenge of ‘China’s rise’. The research uses the progress of digital technology, and on this ground realizes a multidisciplinary approach which implements methods in the field of the science for communications, the public diplomacy, and the comparison of open-source data. This whole complex is united in the context of security in an international environment. The analysis of the registered diametrical opposites indicates that the discovered approaches are on the spectral limits of possibilities for managing a state's inner public opinion in a dynamic international environment.

Speaker: Plamen Atanasov ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

12:05 → 13:35 Sustainable Energy Engineering and Applications: ER I

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Ivan Simeonov (Vasil Levsky National Military University), Nikolay Padarev (Vasil Levsky National Military University)

12:05 CAPACITY AND SECOND-LIFE POTENTIAL OF LITHIUM-ION CELLS RECOVERED FROM DISPOSABLE E-CIGARETTES FOR DISTRIBUTED MICRO-ENERGY STORAGE

The widespread adoption of disposable electronic cigarettes has created a rapidly growing waste stream containing embedded lithium-ion batteries. In most cases, these batteries are discarded together with the device once the e-liquid reservoir is depleted, despite the possibility that the electrochemical lifetime of the cell significantly exceeds the functional lifetime of the product. This study investigates the residual capacity and reuse potential of lithium-ion cells recovered from discarded disposable e-cigarettes and evaluates their potential relevance for distributed micro-energy storage applications.

A total of 115 lithium-ion cells were collected from used devices and classified by format. Following visual inspection and voltage screening, 102 cells were tested using a standardized constant-current charge–discharge protocol at 0.2C within the voltage range of 4.2–3.0 V. The experimental results show that 87.3% of the tested cells retained more than 85% of their nominal capacity, with an average remaining capacity of 89.8%. Only 3.9% of the tested cells exhibited a remaining capacity below 70%.

These results indicate that a considerable share of lithium-ion batteries discarded with disposable consumer electronics remain technically functional and could be repurposed in low-power applications such as IoT devices, educational platforms, and small distributed storage modules. The findings highlight the importance of systematic collection, classification and diagnostic approaches for small-format lithium-ion batteries in order to support circular economy principles and reduce unnecessary loss of critical battery materials.

Speaker: Mr Aadu Petrov (BC student)

12:20 Negative Impact of Renewable Energy: Critical Analysis

The importance of renewable energy has grown enormously in recent years, with the EU's target for renewables to achieve a share of 42.5% of gross energy consumption by 2030. This is related not only to stimulating technological developments in the field and increasing investments, but also to legislative changes to accelerate the modernization of networks, remove regulatory barriers and regulate the activities of prosumers and encourage consumers and producers to increase consumption. In this study, we aim not only to define the essence of renewable energy sources, but also to prepare a critical analysis of the scientific literature concerning the negative impact of renewable sources on the environment. In this regard, by applying a bibliometric analysis of the existing literature in Scopus, we highlight the leading specialists in the field and their citation, which is an expression of the significance of the published scientific ideas. Through keywords co-occurrence analysis, we reveal the leading topics around which the research of specialists is focused. As a result, we reveal and summarize the main negative effects of renewables. In conclusion, and based on the analysis, we confirm our hypothesis that the environmental risks of renewable energy sources are insufficiently analyzed and contradict the assumptions of the concept of sustainable development.

Speaker: Ventsislava Nikolova-Minkova (Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:35 Legal Transformation of the Bulgarian Energy Sector: From a Centralized Model to a Decentralized Regulatory Framework for Renewable Energy Sources and Renewable Energy Communities

This report analyzes the fundamental regulatory transformation of the Bulgarian energy sector, stemming from the transition from the traditional centralized model to a decentralized legal framework for renewable energy sources. The primary research focus is directed toward the conceptual alignment and existing contradictions between the Energy Act and the Energy from Renewable Sources Act. Despite the introduction of progressive European definitions such as "active consumer" and "renewable energy community," the analysis identifies a significant regulatory dualism that hinders the actual functionality of these new market entities.
The study identifies key barriers to energy decentralization arising from the conservative architecture of the Energy Act and the lack of applied methodology in secondary legislation. Special attention is paid to the need for reform in the licensing regimes of the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission and the introduction of differentiated "local grid fees" to reflect the actual load on the grid during production and consumption within a single community.
The scientific contribution of the report is expressed in the formulation of specific proposals for legislative amendments, including the creation of a "one-stop-shop" digital register at the Sustainable Energy Development Agency to eliminate administrative duplication. The author substantiates the conclusion that without urgent regulatory corrections, energy decentralization in the Republic of Bulgaria will remain in a state of functional inefficiency, blocking strategic goals for a sustainable energy transition and decarbonization.

Speaker: Olga Borisova (Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar")

12:50 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EFFICIENCY AND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF A DUAL-FUEL DIESEL ENGINE FUELED WITH COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS AND HYDROGEN

This study presents a comparative experimental analysis of the thermodynamic and economic performance of a compression ignition engine operating in conventional diesel mode and in dual-fuel mode with compressed natural gas and hydrogen. The investigation evaluates the influence of gaseous fuel addition on fuel consumption, brake specific fuel consumption, thermal efficiency, and cost of energy production under identical operating conditions. Experimental tests were conducted on a single-cylinder diesel engine at constant engine speed of 2000 min⁻¹ and variable load, using both fixed (K = 20%) and maximum gas substitution ratios. The performance of the engine was assessed based on measured fuel consumption parameters and calculated efficiency indicators. An economic evaluation was also performed using representative fuel prices. The results show that conventional diesel operation achieves the highest thermal efficiency, reaching approximately 29.5% at medium load, compared to about 28 – 29% for hydrogen and 26 – 27% for compressed natural gas. From an economic perspective, compressed natural gas provides the lowest cost of energy production, reaching values as low as approximately 0.50 €/kWh, followed by diesel at around 0.65 – 0.70 €/kWh, while hydrogen results in the highest cost, exceeding 1.0 €/kWh at low loads due to its higher fuel price. The results highlight a clear trade-off between efficiency and cost. While diesel operation remains the most efficient, and compressed natural gas is the most economically favorable option, hydrogen demonstrates improved performance compared to methane and offers significant environmental benefits.

Speaker: Atanasi Tashev (Department of Transport and Aircraft Equipment and Technologies, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Sofia, Plovdiv Branch, 25 Tsanko Dyustabanov Street, 4000 Plovdiv , Bulgaria)

13:05 Secure and Resilient Operation of Hybrid PV-Wind-Storage Systems for Modular e-Fuel Production under Disturbances

Secure and resilient operation is a critical requirement for modular Power-to-Liquid e-fuel plants supplied by intermittent renewable energy. This paper investigates a modular e-fuel production architecture powered by a hybrid photovoltaic-wind-battery system and evaluates its response to short-duration renewable disturbances. A deterministic operational model is formulated for renewable generation, battery buffering, electrolyzer dispatch, hydrogen production, and aggregate fuel synthesis. To improve engineering realism, the framework incorporates electrolyzer ramp-rate constraints and a degradation-aware operating index. The optimization objective is to sustain fuel continuity while limiting curtailment, electrolyzer power variance, and dynamic stress. Beyond the main stressed-case comparison, the study includes sensitivity analysis of the PV/Wind ratio and storage capacity, together with Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis under stochastic renewable fluctuations. Relative to the no-buffer baseline, the optimized dispatch increases daily fuel output by 11.6%, reduces electrolyzer power variance by 66.3%, and improves the disturbance-window resilience score by 36.2%. The results show that secure operation of modular PtL plants emerges from coordinated design of renewable mix, storage, and supervisory control rather than from renewable-following logic alone.

Speakers: Iliyan Hutov (defence technologies), Petia Gencheva (Bulgaria)

13:20 Bulgaria’s Hybrid Energy Model: Legal Aspects of Systemic Sustainability

This study analyzes the critical interaction between centralized nuclear power capacities and emerging decentralized energy communities within the context of the full liberalization of the Bulgarian energy market by 2026. The primary focus is directed toward the regulatory dichotomy between the Energy Act (EA), which ensures systemic security through base-load capacities, and the Energy from Renewable Sources Act (ERSA), which introduces decentralized entities and derogates the traditional "vertical" energy model. The analysis establishes that the transition to a free market fundamentally alters the status of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant—moving it from a strategic asset with administrative quotas to an active market participant exposed to price volatility and in need of new financial instruments, such as Contracts for Difference (CfDs). In parallel, the ERSA legitimizes the figures of the "active consumer," the "citizen energy community," and the "independent aggregator," providing them with streamlined administrative regimes and energy-sharing rights. The research identifies a significant regulatory vacuum regarding pecuniary liability for imbalances and the allocation of systemic sustainability costs. It highlights the legal antinomy between the priority grid access granted to RES communities and the technological inertia of nuclear capacities, which often leads to the improper socialization of individual costs within the overall system price. In conclusion, specific legislative measures are proposed to achieve regulatory synergy, including the introduction of "flexible grid contracts," the transformation of network services toward capacity-based fees (per kW), and the integration of decentralized sources under the direct operational control of the system operator. The author substantiates the thesis that the sector's sustainability depends on transitioning from a model of parallel existence toward the legally regulated functional integration of generating capacities.

Speaker: Prof. Olga Borisova (Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar")

12:05 → 13:50 Engineering Sciences and Production Technology: ES I

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395128945005503?p=rYnc6VEEiKm6Iiv4aM

Conveners: Aleksandrs Gorbunovs (Riga Technical University), Dessislava Teneva (Space Research and Technology Institute - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences)

12:05 Engineering Aspects of Innovation Management Systems

Innovation management systems enhance the quality and foster the continual improvement of industrial processes and products. Product innovations are often associated with inventions and breakthrough discoveries. When the output of innovation initiatives and actions results in a product that is significantly different from its competitors and adds value to interested parties, then usually engineers and inventors choose to protect their intellectual property by a patent or a utility model. This paper presents a methodology for applying the guidance, tools and methods for intellectual property management of ISO 56005 in industrial organizations in Bulgaria.

Speaker: Tzvetelin Gueorguiev (Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:20 INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF MARKETING AND LOGISTICS RELATIONSHIPS WITH CUSTOMERS THROUGH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR

This report examines the contemporary aspects of managing marketing and logistics relationships with customers in the industrial sector, emphasizing the need for their integration in the context of digital transformation. In the context of increased competition and growing customer requirements in a B2B environment, effective interaction between marketing activities and logistics processes is becoming a key factor in achieving sustainable competitive advantage.
The report analyzes the role of digital technologies such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, supply chain management (SCM) systems, as well as other intelligent solutions that support the synchronization between demand and supply. Special attention is paid to the challenges related to the fragmentation of processes and the lack of coordination between individual functional units in industrial enterprises.
The aim of the report is to develop a conceptual framework for integrated management of marketing and logistics relationships with customers in the industrial sector through the application of digital technologies, which will help increase the efficiency of business processes and customer satisfaction.
The expected results are related to identifying key factors for successful integration, as well as formulating practical guidelines for industrial enterprises in building coordinated and customer-oriented management systems.

Speaker: Dobromira Ivanova

12:35 Observations of the evolution of the solar diameter and solar constant with CubSat 3U satellites

The French astronomer Jean Picard was the first to make physical measurements of the Sun's radius in the 17th century. In the modern era, from 2010 to 2014, instruments on board the Picard microsatellite allowed for extremely accurate data on the Sun's radius, rotation speed, polar oblateness, and radiated power. This allowed us to learn more about the internal structure of our Sun and its impact on Earth's climate. Atmospheric turbulence has hampered ground-based astronomy since the beginning of scientific observations and has only ended with experiments conducted on board satellites. On the other hand, solar physicists know that only long time series of observations will reveal variations in the parameters of the Sun. On the other hand, space observatories such as SOHO are still a rarity in solar physics.
The report develops a design for a 3U CubSat satellite for simultaneous measurements of the Sun's diameter, its differential rotation and the solar constant. The optimal flight duration is discussed - up to 2 years maximum, in order to study the nature of the variability of these parameters and their mutual relationships. The satellite will have a weight of up to 3 kg and a payload of 2 kg, consisting of 3 optical instruments, which will provide measurements of the Sun's diameter and shape, measurement of total solar energy and energy in the UV range.
It is planned that the satellite will be positioned in a low Earth orbit, have an operational life of one and a half years, after which it will be replaced by an identical one in the same low Earth orbit. This allows for the duration of the mission in time, given the low cost of the satellite and its launch costs. The mission will provide valuable data on the Sun's diameter, rotation, and radiation, and will provide ground-based observations to validate observations from near-Earth space.
The main scientific objectives to be achieved with the satellite mission include:
-Confirmation of diameter variations (and validation of ground-based measurements and their accuracy);
-Establishment of the diameter/global radiance/differential rotation relationship;
-Measurement of the oblateness and shape of the Sun to a high order.
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Speakers: Mrs Dessislava Teneva (Space Research and Technology Institute - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences), Prof. Alexey Stoev (Space Research and Technology Institute - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences)

12:50 Competency-Focused Aviation English for Aircraft Maintenance

This paper presents a mixed-methods needs analysis of Aviation English requirements for aircraft maintenance technicians operating in international and multilingual environments. The study addresses the role of precise and context-appropriate communication in maintenance, repair, and overhaul settings, where language use directly influences operational safety and reliability.
The research adopts an exploratory sequential design combining qualitative and quantitative methods. In the first phase, data were collected through an international focus group using the DACUM method to identify key communicative competences. In the second phase, a context-specific survey was administered to practicing aircraft maintenance professionals and trainee cadets in Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Algeria to validate and extend the qualitative findings. The results identify a multidimensional competence framework comprising linguistic, interactional, intercultural, and professional competences required for effective communication in maintenance contexts. Statistical analysis reveals strong correlations between linguistic competence and both interactional and professional competences, highlighting the integration of language performance with operational capability. The findings also identify priority thematic areas for Aviation English instruction and confirm the predominance of receptive skills, particularly reading and listening, in maintenance-related tasks. The study provides empirically grounded insights into the communicative demands of aircraft maintenance personnel and supports the adoption of a competency-focused approach to Aviation English training. This approach emphasizes the ability to apply language in operational contexts and aligns language instruction with the needs of engineering education and industry practice.
Impact Statement
This study provides empirical evidence on Aviation English requirements in aircraft maintenance, supporting the development of competency-focused language training aligned with engineering practice. The findings contribute to improving communication effectiveness, human factors performance, and operational safety in international aviation contexts.

Speaker: Vanya Katsarska (Bulgarian Air Force Academy)

13:05 REVIEW OF RECENT ADVANCES IN HIGH PERFORMANCE ALUMINIUM ALLOYS FOR AEROSPACE STRUCTURES

The increasing demand for lightweight, durable, and cost effective aerospace structures has renewed scientific and industrial interest in high performance aluminium alloys. This review aims to systematize and critically evaluate recent developments in aluminium alloys for aerospace structures and applications, with emphasis on the relation between alloy system, processing route, microstructure, functional performance, and service reliability. The study was conducted as a structured narrative review with integrative elements, based on recent peer-reviewed research and review articles published mainly from 2021 to 2026. The literature was classified according to alloy families, representative tempers, advanced processing routes, corrosion and fatigue mechanisms, joining technologies, and sustainability aspects. The synthesis indicates that 2xxx, 7xxx, and aluminium lithium alloys remain the most important alloy groups for aeronautical and space structures, while additively manufactured aluminium alloys are becoming increasingly relevant for lightweight and geometrically complex components. The results also show that alloy performance is controlled by coupled effects of alloying, heat treatment, thermomechanical processing, precipitation state, grain structure, defects, surface condition, and environmental exposure. Corrosion fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, additive manufacturing defects, joining related degradation, and sustainable recycling remain key challenges. The literature suggests that aluminium alloys retain a significant aerospace role because they combine low density, mechanical efficiency, manufacturability, repairability, recyclability, and economic viability. Future progress requires integrated alloy design, defect tolerant processing, environmentally safer surface protection, reliable life prediction, and stronger links between materials development and life cycle sustainability.

Speaker: Dr Adelina Miteva (Space Research and Technology Institute – Bulgarian Academy of Sciences)

13:20 STUDY OF THE QUALITY IINDICATORS OF THE SURFACES OF GEAR BLANKETS AFTER COMBINED PROCESSING BY CUTTING AND SURFACE PLASTIC DEFORMATION

The continuous increase in the requirements for the quality of surface treatment of elements of mechanical engineering products from gears requires the improvement of processing and control methods. The main influence on the smoothness and noiselessness of power transmissions is exerted by the correct choice of the method for processing the base holes of the gears. The currently known methods for final processing of holes such as: countersinking, reaming, grinding, etc., do not guarantee high wear resistance, and hence, when assembling them to the journal of the shafts transmitting torque, they do not provide the prescribed kinematic accuracy in the gears. This requires conducting research on combined processing of holes in gear blanks, as well as obtaining the corresponding processing modes and their influence on roughness and microhardness.

Speaker: Desislava Petrova

13:35 ARCHITECTURE OF AN AUTONOMOUS ELECTRIC GARBAGE TRUCK WITH AI MANAGEMENT

The waste management industry faces challenges related to carbon emissions, labor shortages, and safety risks for sanitation workers. This report presents a conceptual design and technical evaluation of an autonomous electric garbage truck that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) for navigation, container manipulation, and real-time obstacle avoidance. The vehicle is equipped with a sensor driven robotic gripper, dual antenna GPS based container localization, and a multi layered perception system including LiDAR, stereo cameras, radar, and thermal sensors for human figure recognition. The methodology combines existing electric truck platforms (e.g., Mack LR Electric, Mercedes Benz eEconic) with state of the art AI perception algorithms (YOLOv5, LSTM for route optimization) and functional safety standards (ISO 26262, ISO 21448). Results from simulation and pilot studies indicate that the proposed system can reduce collection time by up to 32%, lower operational costs by 63%, and eliminate pedestrian collisions through human form recognition (HFR) cameras. Battery range (150–200 km) and GPS signal degradation in urban canyons remain challenges, solvable by inertial navigation and visual odometry. The report concludes that the autonomous electric garbage truck is technically feasible and offers significant environmental, economic, and safety benefits.

Speaker: Alexandar Tsvetanov (Student from Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:05 → 13:50 Information Technology: IT I

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

Conveners: Arnis Cirulis (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences), Artis Teilans (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences)

12:05 A multilayer framework for urban microclimate analysis in smart sustainable city design: the Vienna case

This paper presents a Vienna-focused conceptual framework for urban microclimate analysis in smart sustainable city design. The study is based on a targeted review of microclimate monitoring approaches, GIS-based morphology indicators, and simulation workflows, which is used to identify recurring limitations and translate them into a multi-layer structure. This framework models how morphological parameters (urban morphology and sky view factor) of urban terrain influence variability of microclimate. In more detail, the framework utilizes energy-simulation and intelligent management layers to address the problems of local weather files that lead to a climate gap, limited interaction between buildings and the surrounding microclimate, and the fragmentation between GIS layers and engineering tools. The framework enables spatially informed climate adaptation strategies as well as data-driven planning in smart sustainable cities. The proposed framework provides a transferable methodological tool for climate-responsive urban planning and design.

Speaker: Iliyan Vasilev

12:20 Computer vision approach for panorama creation in military observation

In this paper the problem of obtaining a complete picture of monitored military objects is resolved with computer vision tools. The research is focused on the necessity for the correctly arrangement of photos obtained in different ways to promptly obtain a comprehensive picture of the situation in an area of monitored military operation. The consecutive stages with functional operations are designed in MATLAB environment. Creation of a dataset with detailed images of specific zone of a military operation is described. Speeded-up robust features point detection is followed by descriptor extraction, transformation calculation and other specific computer vision tools. The functions for alpha blending and automatic black edge cropping are implemented for the final panorama creation.

Speaker: Krasimir Slavyanov (National Military University "Vasil Levski")

12:35 Some Properties of the Dirichlet Type Integrals

This article considers the Dirichlet type integrals, for which closed form formulas have been obtained. In particular, it is proven that all these integrals are rational numbers. The Lobachevsky integral formula is also considered.

Speaker: Prof. Ralitsa Angelova-Slavova (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University)

12:50 On Some Properties of Posterior Predictive Distributions

This article considers the method of posterior predictive distributions as an effective tool for checking the correspondence between data and the
statistical model. The examples considered show that in the role of posterior predictive testing statistics, dispersion measures should be taken, because the central tendency measures do not give the natural expected results.

Speaker: Prof. Dimiter Tsvetkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University)

13:05 Designing a firewall system for a computer network based on a single-board computer

When configuring temporary or hastily built, field or other computer networks, it is necessary that they meet all modern standards and requirements for computer networks and for cybersecurity when connecting to the Internet. This study proposes an approach for designing, configuring and setting up a firewall for a computer network, built and configured on the basis of a Raspberry Pi single-board computer and free software. The basic configuration and operation with the various functionalities of the Intrusion Prevention System are described in detail. The application of the proposed solution is possible both for training and research in laboratory conditions and for permanent operation and monitoring of the system by specialists in real conditions and continuous operation.

Speaker: Krasimir Slavyanov (National Military University "Vasil Levski")

13:20 THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VISUAL STYLE AND EMOTIONAL ENGAGEMENT IN MOBILE TOURISM APPLICATIONS

Mobile tourism applications are expected to provide not only functional usability but also emotionally engaging experiences. This study explores how visual style influences emotional engagement in mobile tourism interfaces. Focusing on a comparative sample of Bulgarian tourism apps, the research applies a mixed-method UX design combining user ratings, emotional assessment, and targeted interface observation. The findings indicate that visually clear interfaces with balanced content hierarchy and consistent graphic language are more likely to evoke positive emotional responses, while visually overloaded layouts tend to reduce engagement and pleasantness. The study contributes empirical evidence that emotional engagement in tourism apps is strongly shaped by visual presentation, and argues for the integration of affective measures into UX evaluation of mobile tourism products

Speaker: Stela Mincheva

13:35 A "Brute force" reduced attack implementation on 256_AES encrypted voice stream in a MATLAB Simulink environment

This paper presents the steps and the possibility realization a "Brute force" reduced attack implementation on 256_AES encrypted voice stream in a MATLAB Simulink environment. The research focus is selecting the correct decrypted ciphertext from many candidates. Possible selection hypoteses leading to the interpretation of the transmitted information are considered.

Speaker: Elitsa Petkova (Bulgaria)

12:05 → 13:50 Laser Technology: LT I

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/370720276875519?p=0YScKEvJuAZhBdZq19

Conveners: Imants Adijāns (RTU Rezekne Academy), Lyubomir Lazov (Rezekne Academy of Riga Technical University)

12:05 Comparative Analysis of Numerical and Experimental Results in Laser Hardening of 42CrMo4 Steel

Abstract: Laser hardening of steels is a modern technological process widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and tooling industries. In the present study, a comparative analysis between numerical modeling results and experimental data for the laser hardening process of 42CrMo4 steel samples is performed. Numerical calculations were used to determine preliminary operating intervals of power density at different processing speeds, based on the heat conduction equation and the thermal balance equation with applied approximations. For comparison purposes, in-house experimental results obtained using a 4 kW fiber laser were employed. A good correlation between the numerical and experimental results is observed. The obtained findings are useful for operators of laser processing systems as well as for researchers in the field of laser hardening of steels.

Speaker: Prof. Lyubomir Lazov

12:20 OPTIMIZATION-BASED FIRST-ORDER SYNTHESIS OF INFRARED TRIPLET SYSTEMS FOR LWIR IMAGING

This paper presents an optimization-based approach for the first-order design of infrared triplet systems in the LWIR spectral range. The method is based on paraxial optical theory and formulates the design task as a multi-parameter optimization problem aimed at minimizing chromatic aberrations and Petzval curvature under given constraints. Numerical optimization techniques are applied to determine the optical powers and spacing between the lenses. The obtained results demonstrate stable and physically realizable first-order solutions, validated through convergence of the iterative optimization procedure. The proposed framework provides an efficient and extensible approach for preliminary infrared optical system design.

Speaker: Dimcho Pulov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:35 STATE CONTROLLER SYNTHESIS FOR AN ELECTROHYDRAULIC POWER TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

This paper deals with the synthesis of state controller for an electrohydraulic power transmission system. There are shown the mathematical model of the electrohydraulic system and state controller synthesis method with state space feedbacks. The controller coefficients are obtained from preliminary defined error performance index. The response curves are obtained from computer simulation. The results are given in a few graphics.

Speaker: Hristo Hristov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

12:50 AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE FREQUENCY RESPONSE OF AN ELECTROPNEUMATIC POSITIONING SYSTEM WITH A RODLESS CYLINDER FOUR HIGH SPEED PNEUMATIC VALVES AND PWM CONTROL

This paper presents an experimental investigation into the frequency response of an electropneumatic positioning system, which includes a rodless pneumatic cylinder and four 2/2-way high speed pneumatic valves operated via pulse width modulation. The experimental procedures are captured and analyzed in real-time using a dedicated virtual instrument. The amplitude and phase Bode plots for the electropneumatic positioning system were obtained through experimentation and subsequently analyzed, leading to the identification of the system's critical frequency. The findings are illustrated through various graphs.

Speaker: Hristo Hristov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

13:05 MODELING AND SIMULATING DYNAMIC PROCESSES IN AN ELECTROPNEUMATIC POSITIONING SYSTEM WITH PWM CONTROL AT DIFFERENT LENGTHS OF THE PNEUMATIC LINES

The electropneumatic drive system with PWM control is used in machines and equipment where it is necessary for the actuator to be positioned at a significant distance from the control valves. This leads to changes in the dynamic characteristics of the systems, depending on the length of the connecting pneumatic lines. The report presents a mathematical model of an electropneumatic positioning system with PWM control, taking into account the length of the connecting pneumatic lines. The mathematical model has been implemented in the MATLAB Simulink programming environment. A verified and tested model has been used to simulate the dynamic processes in the pneumatic lines. Transient processes have been simulated for different lengths of the pneumatic lines and for various PWM control parameters.

Speaker: Georgi Iliev (Technical University of Gabrovo)

13:20 An Adaptive Kalman Filter for Video-Based Tracking with Dynamic Adaptation of Covariance Matrices

This paper presents an adaptive Kalman filter for video-based object tracking, in which the covariance matrices of the process and measurement noise are dynamically updated in real time. The proposed approach is based on a linear stochastic model without introducing a control input, which is justified by the nature of video observation, where only measurement information from consecutive frames is available.
The state vector includes object coordinates, velocities, and accelerations, enabling a more accurate representation of the system dynamics and improved prediction under varying motion regimes. The adaptation of the covariance matrices is achieved through innovation analysis and the application of a statistical consistency criterion (NIS), providing automatic balancing between the model and measurement contributions.
The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through simulation studies under different levels of measurement noise. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in the root mean square error of the estimates and robust filter performance under varying measurement conditions, including noise and temporary loss of observations

Speaker: Dimitar Dichev (Technical University of Gabrovo)

13:35 Scratch-Test Response of Color Laser-Marked AISI 304 Stainless Steel for a 7 × 7 Laser-Parameter Matrix

Abstract—Durable color laser markings on stainless steel are attractive for traceability, product authentication, and identification of industrial components exposed to mechanical contact. In this work, the scratch-test response of nanosecond fiber-laser-marked AISI 304 stainless steel was evaluated for a 7 × 7 processing matrix. The laser-marking parameters were: average power P = 3–15 W and hatch spacing Δx = 40–100 µm, while the scanning speed, pulse repetition rate, pulse duration, and scanning strategy were kept constant at 100 mm/s, 500 kHz, 8 ns, and two passes (0°/90°), respectively. Scratch testing was performed with a CSEM REVETEST system using a Rockwell-type diamond indenter (tip radius 200 µm, cone angle 120°) under a progressive load from 0 to 30 N, with scratching oriented transverse to the raster direction. For all 49 conditions, the coefficient of friction µ and tangential force Ft were compared at a normal load Fn = 20 N and were benchmarked against the untreated surface.
The untreated reference exhibited µ = 0.259 and Ft = 5.20 N. The most severe friction response was observed at P = 3 W and Δx = 40 µm, where µ increased to 0.406 (+56.7%). The lowest friction values were obtained at P = 3 W, Δx = 70 µm (µ = 0.225) and at P = 15 W, Δx = 100 µm (µ = 0.225), corresponding to reductions of about 13.2% relative to the untreated condition. Small hatch spacings (40–60 µm) required higher laser power to reduce friction, whereas Δx = 70 µm provided a comparatively stable low-friction window across the full power range. The results show that tribological response can be tuned by balancing interline overlap, local remelting, and the fraction of untreated surface retained between laser tracks.

Speaker: Imants Adijāns (RTU Rezekne Academy)

13:50 → 14:25 Coffee break

14:25 → 15:55 Poster session: Poster session II

Conveners: Desislava Petrova, Yanitsa Boyanova

14:25 DETERMINATION OF OPTIMAL UNDERWATER CUTTING PARAMETERS FOR SHIP HULL STEEL OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH VESSEL RSV 421 "ST. ST. CYRIL AND METHODIUS"

This article presents an in-depth study of underwater exothermic cutting technology with exothermic electrodes, applied to the hull steel of the Bulgarian research vessel RSV 421 "St. St. Cyril and Methodius". Having identified the steel type in previous studies as low-carbon Grade A, the focus here shifts to the optimization of underwater repair procedures. The thermodynamic fundamentals of the exothermic reaction, the impact of hydrostatic pressure on cutting parameters, and the strict safety protocols required for operations in extreme marine conditions are examined. The energy characteristics, the specifications of EP-1 and EP-3 type electrodes, and the metallurgical transformations in the cutting zone are analysed.

Speakers: Hristo Hristov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy - Varna, Bulgaria), Prof. Momchil Manov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy - Varna, Bulgaria)

14:28 Hydrodynamic Jet Reaction Analysis for Marine Propulsion Control Units

Modern requirements in shipbuilding and marine engineering necessitate continuous improvement of propulsion systems, with particular emphasis on waterjet propulsors due to their high maneuverability and efficiency at elevated speeds. This study presents a detailed analysis of hydrodynamic reaction forces generated during the interaction of a high-speed water jet with deflector surfaces of varying geometries. The primary objective is to evaluate the efficiency of converting the jet’s kinetic energy into useful mechanical reaction depending on the geometric profile.
The experimental investigation was conducted using a specialized laboratory test stand (HM 150.08), enabling precise measurement and quantitative assessment of momentum change. Four deflector geometries were examined: flat (90° deflection), semi-circular (180°), oblique (45°), and conical (135°). By systematically measuring volumetric flow rate, calculating jet velocity, and recording the balancing force via a lever mechanism, reliable experimental data were obtained and compared with theoretical predictions based on the conservation of momentum.
The results demonstrate that the jet deflection angle plays a critical role in system efficiency. The semi-circular surface (180°) achieves the highest energy utilization by maximizing momentum change with minimal fluid consumption. In contrast, the oblique surface exhibits the lowest efficiency, requiring a significantly higher flow rate to produce the same reaction force. The flat and conical geometries show intermediate performance characteristics.
These findings have direct applications in marine mechatronics, including the mechanical design of waterjet propulsion and reversing systems, as well as the development of control algorithms for electronic control units. Incorporating these hydrodynamic relationships enables improved sensor calibration, compensation for nonlinear effects, and enhanced overall energy efficiency and maneuverability of modern marine vessels.

Speaker: Lyuba Gyurova (Naval Academy N. Vaptsarov)

14:31 FROM CONVENTIONAL CAMOUFLAGE TEXTILES TO METAMATERIAL-BASED COMBAT PROTECTION: REVIEW

This paper presents a conceptual review of the evolution of military camouflage systems from conventional textile-based concealment to advanced metamaterial-enabled multispectral protection. The study analyzes the current limitations of traditional camouflage materials in the face of modern detection technologies, including infrared imaging, radar systems, LIDAR platforms, and AI-assisted sensor fusion and automated target-recognition systems. Particular attention is given to metamaterial structures based on split-ring resonators (SRRs), transformation optics, coding metasurfaces, and adaptive electromagnetic shielding concepts. The paper discusses integrating conductive and resonant elements into textile architectures through embroidery, nanoprinting, and composite fabrication. Recent developments in self-healing polymers, omniphobic coatings, and adaptive thermal camouflage are also reviewed as emerging technologies for future combat equipment. The advantages, operational limitations, and engineering challenges of wearable metamaterial systems are critically evaluated. The study concludes that metamaterial-assisted combat gear is a promising direction for next-generation multispectral military protection, although significant challenges remain regarding durability, scalability, and battlefield implementation.

Speaker: Mrs Mariya Georgieva (Bulgaria)

14:34 MODELLING OF ACTIVE VIBRATION ISOLATION SYSTEM FOR AIR COMPRESSOR

Abstract ─ A subject of this article is to model a vibroisolation systems for a sterile air compressor. The goal is to investigate the main parameters involved in analyzing the system, which consists of mounting structure, modeled as absolutely rigid body, the compressor itself, modeled by inertial mass, with disturbance forces in operational conditions. In the course of the study several vibroisolation techniques are investigated and a proposed strategy of using active damping mounts for the structure is given.

Speakers: Ivan Tashev (Assistant professor - Technical University Sofia, branch Plovdiv), Kiril Lengerov (TU Sofia - branch Plovdiv)

14:37 OPTIMIZATION OF STATISTICAL ANALYSIS FOR GEAR INSPECTION

This paper presents a method for evaluating the machining accuracy and process stability of the gear cutting and gear hobbing of cylindrical gears. Through statistical analysis and the use of mathematical evaluation criteria, the stability of the machining process has been established. This makes it possible to determine the optimal setup parameters and predict the maximum number of parts that can be produced with the initial setup of the machining system.

Speaker: Kiril Lengerov (TU Sofia - branch Plovdiv)

14:40 IMPROVING THE ACCURACY OF A GEAR TRANSMISSION BY DIVIDING THE KINEMATIC ERROR

This paper discusses a method for improving the kinematic accuracy of gear trains through precise analysis and decomposition of the errors of individual gears during assembly. Through mathematical modeling and analysis of collected data, the optimal meshing of the gear wheels is determined, allowing for the minimization of the total error.

Speakers: Kiril Lengerov (TU Sofia - branch Plovdiv), Ivan Tashev (Assistant professor - Technical University Sofia, branch Plovdiv)

14:43 Analysis of accuracy in different positioning schemes using statistical methods

The choice of fixtures, the type of clamping, and the clamping force are key criteria for minimizing adverse effects that lead to a deterioration in the geometric characteristics of the machined surfaces. This article examines the accuracy of cylindrical and conical surfaces under different clamping schemes—in a chuck (three-jaw self-centering) and between a chuck and a center.
The accuracy of the machined surfaces has been analyzed and evaluated using statistical methods, with a comparative analysis performed between the mathematical expected value and the variance for the two clamping schemes.

Speaker: Dr Hristo Yakimov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

14:46 ENVIRONMENTAL, SANITARY AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS IN THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF RADIATION-HAZARDOUS FACILITIES

The article is devoted to the extremely topical issue of fulfilling the environmental, sanitary and health requirements and ensuring radiation safety in the creation and operation of radiation hazardous facilities and the protection of the population, including their personnel. It examines some of the modern threats and dangers of radiation pollution; the role and importance of sources of radiation hazard in the formation of the ecological situation and the human environment in Bulgaria; technogenic and environmental risks associated with the creation and operation of radiation hazardous facilities; some of the problems of management and regulation in the field of radiation safety. Some modern views on the methods, organizational principles, measures and actions for ensuring radiation safety are analyzed. Attention is paid to regulatory, legal, economic and other aspects in the field of ensuring radiation safety of the population.

Speaker: Dr Georgi Georgiev

14:49 An Integrated Concept for the Protection of Photographic and Electronic Equipment During Crime Scene Investigation Using a Risk-Oriented Protocol

Abstract: Forensic photography is performed in uncontrolled environments where photographic and other devices are exposed to both direct impacts (blood and body fluids, dust/soot, chemical residues, water, mechanical impacts) and indirect risks, turning the equipment into a reservoir and a means of transferring traces and contamination between objects, different areas and subsequent examinations. Typically, personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered as a barrier to protect personnel, but the same barrier logic can be symmetrically applied to equipment through different layers of protective coatings, touch interface control, zoning (HOT/WARM/COLD), role separation, sealing before transport and staged decontamination. This report proposes a protocol that combines physical contamination control with digital integrity control (metadata, controlled transfer, hashing) so that images and devices are processed in a defensible manner within the framework of quality management.
Keywords — crime scene investigation, equipment protection, forensic photography, personal protective equipment (PPE).

Speaker: Dr Georgi Georgiev (Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar")

14:52 Determining the organizational level of digital maturity from the integration of AI in the service sector in the Republic of Bulgaria

In recent years, in the context of digital transformation, the concept of "digital maturity" has been increasingly used. The purpose of this study is to determine the organizational level of digital maturity of organizations in the service sector in the Republic of Bulgaria, in the context of the integration of technologies based on artificial intelligence. The focus is on identifying the main aspects that facilitate or hinder the process of their successful integration and effective application. In connection with the set goal, an empirical study was conducted among managers and IT experts from selected companies in the sector, on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Speaker: Prof. Ivaylo Stoyanov (University of telecommunications and post)

14:55 Operational art and cognitive warfare

The report examines the transformation of operational art under the influence of cognitive warfare. The main focus is on the strategic asymmetry between the leading global military doctrines. Through a systematic analysis, differences in approaches are revealed – NATO’s reactive-defensive model aimed at societal resilience; the US’s proactive model striving for cognitive dominance; Russia’s offensive reflexive management and China’s intelligentized warfare. The results of the study prove that the cognitive dimension is becoming a critical factor for success in multi-domain operations, where victory is defined by breaking the enemy’s will and paralyzing his decision-making processes. Guidelines are proposed for integrating cognitive effects into operational design and developing new metrics for effectiveness.

Speaker: Milko Stefanov (Rakovski National Defense College)

14:58 A conceptual model for risk management in hybrid threats and cognitive attacks

This report presents an integrated conceptual model for risk management, adapted to the specifics of hybrid threats and cognitive warfare. In the conditions of a changed strategic environment, where the objects of attack are not only physical assets, but also human consciousness and social cohesion, traditional risk assessment models prove to be insufficient. The report analyzes the essence of cognitive attack at the biological, psychological and social levels, considering the influence of technologies such as artificial intelligence and algorithmic sabotage. Qualitative risk indicators are presented through the OODA loop and NATO's "The House" model. The central place is occupied by the proposed conceptual model for quantitative transformation of cognitive risk, based on institutional vulnerability, media amplification and cognitive resilience of society.

Speaker: Milko Stefanov (Rakovski National Defense College)

15:01 Application of fuzzy logic in the prediction of air pollution in Berlin, Germany

Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere that can adversely impact human health and other living organisms. In urban environments such as Berlin, air pollution—particularly from traffic emissions and industrial activities—continues to be a significant concern. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is commonly used to represent the level of air quality in a given area, based on the average concentrations of pollutants including particulate matter (PM10), ozone (O₃), carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). Accurate prediction of AQI values is crucial for mitigating the negative effects of air pollution on both the environment and public health. This paper proposes a model for AQI prediction using a fuzzy data. By applying fuzzy sets and fuzzy logic techniques, an approach is presented to handle inaccurate, incomplete, or subjective data, to achieve more reliable and robust air quality assessments.

Speaker: Desislava Velinova

15:04 CYBERSECURITY THREATS IN INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTION PATHWAYS

The rapid integration of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) into urban and interurban mobility has significantly improved efficiency, safety, and automation in transport operations. Nevertheless, the extensive connectivity enabled by vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and cloud services has also increased exposure to cyber threats. The primary scientific challenge is that compromising Cooperative ITS (C-ITS) can enable the manipulation of critical transport functions, such as automated control, braking, and signaling, through the falsification or malicious injection of communication messages. The increasing frequency of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks exacerbates this vulnerability, as these attacks account for the majority of publicly recorded incidents worldwide and directly affect the transportation sector. Furthermore, ransomware and supply-chain attacks have led to a marked increase in system breaches and significant financial losses.
IoT devices extensively deployed within ITS often use inadequately secured communication protocols, creating opportunities for remote intrusion and infrastructure compromise. Simultaneously, Artificial Intelligence (AI) functions as a dual-use technology, facilitating both cyber attacks—such as automated phishing, adaptive threat generation, and vulnerability analysis—and defense through the deployment of anomaly detection models. Additional risk arises from adversarial attacks that can mislead AI models in autonomous vehicles, thereby undermining real-time decision-making processes.
Proposed solutions include integrating international standards, such as ISO/SAE 21434 and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework; applying cryptographic protection to V2X communications; implementing hybrid intrusion detection systems; and adopting lifecycle-oriented risk management across ITS infrastructures. AI-based predictive analytics and anomaly detection methods are identified as critical approaches for enhancing cyber resilience. Ongoing coordination among operators, vendors, and public institutions is essential to mitigate systemic risks and protect the integrity of ITS environments.

Speaker: Mr Krasimir Lalov

15:07 Decision-Making Dynamics in Secure Software Development Teams: The Role of AI-Supported Systems

The growing use of AI in software security is reshaping how development teams evaluate vulnerabilities and prioritize security decisions during the development process. Increasingly, teams rely on AI-supported systems that generate recommendations for risk assessment and threat detection. However, the extent to which these tools influence collective decision-making within secure software development teams remains insufficiently explored. This study investigates how AI-supported security tools affect decision dynamics in secure software development teams. An empirical research design was applied through a structured survey involving software developers and security specialists working in security-critical environments. The study examines several key variables, including trust in AI-supported systems, perceived usefulness of AI tools, transparency of AI-generated recommendations, decision confidence, and team coordination during security-related tasks. The findings indicate that trust in AI-supported tools and the perceived transparency of AI-generated insights significantly influence developers’ decision confidence, while improved team coordination facilitates the effective integration of AI recommendations into collective security decisions. These results suggest that the successful use of AI in secure development depends not only on technological capabilities but also on team-level decision processes and organizational conditions shaping how AI-generated insights are interpreted and applied.

Speaker: Marina Marinova - Stoyanova (Tehnical University of Varna)

15:10 Investigation and modelling of surface roughness during milling of GJL-250 gray cast iron and S235JR steel using mixed ceramic tools

Milling is one of the most common methods for processing flat surfaces, providing satisfactory accuracy and low surface roughness at high production rates. This paper presents the results of a study on the surface roughness of machined parts made of GJL-250 gray cast iron and S235JR carbon structural steel, obtained by milling with a single-tooth milling cutter with Al2O3/TiC mixed ceramic replaceable insert. Using the methods of the planned experiment and the multifactorial regression analysis, the combined influence of the cutting speed and the feed per toot on the surface roughness has been evaluated, and corresponding adequate theoretical-experimental models have been constructed. Combinations of cutting speed and feed per toot have been determined that result in minimum surface roughness on the machined surfaces for the two materials studied.

Speaker: Dr Hristo Radev (TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF GABROVO)

15:13 Eco-Leadership and Green Human Resource Management as Drivers of Environmental Security and Critical Infrastructure Resilience

This study examines the role of eco-leadership and Green Human Resource Management (Green HRM) as key drivers for strengthening environmental security and the resilience of critical infrastructure. In the context of increasing environmental risks, climate challenges, and the growing need for the protection of natural resources, organizations responsible for managing critical infrastructure face the necessity of integrating sustainable management practices and innovative leadership models.
The research analyzes the concept of eco-leadership as a managerial approach aimed at aligning organizational strategic objectives with the principles of sustainable development and environmental protection. Particular attention is paid to the role of Green Human Resource Management as a strategic tool for developing an organizational culture oriented toward sustainability, environmental responsibility, and effective human capital management.
The study also focuses on the development of green competencies, employee motivation, the emergence of “green jobs,” and the importance of training and organizational development in building sustainable management systems. In this context, the contribution of the human factor to enhancing the resilience of organizations responsible for critical infrastructure is examined, particularly in situations involving environmental risks and crises.
The paper concludes by identifying key challenges and best practices related to the implementation of eco-leadership and Green Human Resource Management, offering recommendations for the development of sustainable policies and managerial strategies that contribute to strengthening environmental.

Speaker: Prof. Valentin Vasilev

15:16 WEB TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT BY TECHNIQUES WITH SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE, NAÏVE BAYES AND DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS

Effective diagnostics of WEB services distribution is an important prerequisite for adequate traffic load service planning in information and communication infrastructures in serving corporate clients. Network administrators play a key role in specification and transmission medium metrics analysis in web traffic management. The paper proposes a Machine Learning approach for WEB traffic streams diagnostics and categorization of corporate business clients in urban areas. The approach envisages a pre-processing phase in network traffic analysis procedures, incorporating the following specific traffic metrics: Flows, IPv4 Packet size, IPv4 Packet size distribution, and Mean Transition Rate. The second stage of the research integrates analytical tools based on Support Vector Machine (SVM), Naïve Bayes (NB) algorithm, Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), and Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA). The effectiveness of a system comprising C-SVM and Nu-SVM classifiers was evaluated using different sets of Kernel functions - Linear, Polynomial, Radial Basis Function (RBF), and Sigmoid types were applied. An advantage for Nu-SVM WEB traffic classification processes was established, where a maximum threshold recognition of 100.00% was achieved for the target classification groups defined. NB classifier training processes were conducted by Normal, Lognormal, Gamma and Poisson distributions applied to the input datasets. The highest classification accuracy of 100.00% was obtained for the Normal distribution, whereas when training the NB classifier with the Lognormal data distribution a significant reduction in this criterion below the 36.00% threshold was observed. Training and verification series of procedures were performed for Discriminant classifiers, respectively LDA, Diagonal Linear Discriminant Analysis (DLDA), Pseudo-Linear Discriminant Analysis (PLDA), QDA, Diagonal Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (DQDA) and Pseudo-Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (PQDA). In performance evaluation for the defined Linear and Quadratic types of DA classifiers, the highest recognition threshold of 90.00% was achieved in the WEB traffic streams analyzed in the case of PLDA classification procedures.

Speaker: Georgi Georgiev (Technical University of)

15:19 Numerical Modeling of Conjugate Heat Transfer Between Fluid and Solid Using ANSYS Fluent

This study presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of conjugate heat transfer (CHT) between a fluid and a solid domain, a phenomenon of critical importance for the design and optimization of engineering systems such as heat exchangers, electronic cooling devices, and industrial reactors. The simulations were carried out using ANSYS Fluent, enabling detailed analysis of heat transfer processes within both the fluid and solid regions, as well as across their shared interface.
The adopted methodology includes high-quality mesh generation, precise definition of material properties, and implementation of appropriate physical models governing fluid flow and heat transfer. Boundary conditions for fluid velocity and temperature were carefully specified to ensure realistic representation of operating conditions. The numerical model solves the coupled conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy, with particular emphasis on the accurate treatment of the thermal coupling at the fluid-solid interface, where continuity of temperature and heat flux is automatically enforced.
The results provide detailed spatial distributions of temperature, velocity, and heat flux, allowing for a quantitative evaluation of heat transfer performance. Critical regions characterized by high thermal gradients and potential overheating are clearly identified, offering valuable insights for design improvements. Furthermore, the study highlights the strong interdependence between fluid dynamics and solid thermal response, demonstrating the necessity of coupled analysis in such systems.
Overall, the findings confirm that ANSYS Fluent is a reliable and efficient computational tool for solving complex CHT problems and supporting the optimization of thermally loaded engineering systems.

Speaker: Lyuba Gyurova (Naval Academy N. Vaptsarov)

15:22 Real-time network traffic capture and analysis using a deep neural network

Nowadays, computer networks generate large and complex data sets, which leads to problems related to the detection of new, modified threats. Classic Intrusion Detection Systems – IDS, based on static rules and signatures, have difficulty identifying masked - as legitimate or previously unseen malicious activities. The challenge they face is reverse shell attacks, in which the attacker establishes a seemingly reliable connection with the victim. This study presents an approach aimed at solving a problem related to the cybersecurity of computer systems and networks. This is done by building, training, and testing the effectiveness of deep neural architectures for recognizing illegitimate reverse shell packets passing through a computer network.
The simulation of the attacks is carried out in a protected environment – Oracle Virtual Box. The interception of network packets in real time is carried out using a software tool written in the Python programming language. Packet sniffing itself is performed both in the virtual environment and in the real environment. The sniffer script extracts significant sets of characteristics from network packets, such as packet size, protocols used, ports, TCP flags, IP addresses - of the source (attacker) and the recipient (victim), and others. The current report compares several deep neural networks, namely One-dimensional convolution neural network/1D CNN, Long Short-Term Memory/LSTM and Autoencoder. As 1D CNN, it extracts local dependencies between network packet features for traffic classification. LSTM models capture temporal dependencies and sequences from network data, and autoencoders reconstruct normal network behavior patterns. The results of the experiments reveal the ability of deep neural networks to correctly model the behavior of network traffic and ultimately increase the recognition of compromised data. The proposed approach offers the opportunity to further automate the processes of detection and monitoring of computer systems, which in turn would lead to the protection of network infrastructure in modern dynamic environments.

Speaker: Mrs Angela Borisova (NMU "Vasil Levski")

15:25 A Hybrid Probabilistic and FMEA-Based Model for Reliability and Fault Tolerance Assessment of AI-Based Security Systems

This study presents a hybrid approach that integrates probabilistic modeling and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for the analysis and optimization of reliability and fault tolerance in AI-driven integrated security systems. With the increasing complexity of modern intelligent systems—incorporating video analytics, Internet of Digital Things (IoDT) sensors, autonomous drones, and distributed computing infrastructures—there is a growing need for comprehensive methods to evaluate system risk and resilience.
A mathematical model based on stochastic processes and Markov chains is developed, enabling quantitative evaluation of failure probabilities and transitions between key system states, including normal operation, degraded mode, and complete failure. In parallel, an FMEA analysis is applied to identify critical components, assess the consequences of potential failures, and calculate Risk Priority Numbers (RPN).
The proposed hybrid model integrates probabilistic assessments with expert-driven engineering analysis, resulting in improved accuracy in reliability evaluation. A system-level analysis is conducted across the main subsystems, including the sensing layer, AI processing modules, communication infrastructure, and robotic response units. The results indicate that the communication network and AI modules represent the most critical elements in terms of failure risk.
The proposed methodology can be applied in the design, optimization, and management of intelligent security systems, contributing to enhanced robustness, reliability, and operational efficiency under real-world conditions.

Speakers: Silvia Nikolova (Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen), Prof. Tsvetoslav Tsankov (Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen)

15:28 Investigation and Identification of Ship Hull Steel Grade for Maintenance and Repair Procedures on Scientific Research Vessel RSV 421 "St. St. Cyril and Methodius"

The Bulgarian scientific research vessel RSV 421 "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" conducts regular maritime expeditions from Bulgaria to Antarctica. During these missions, the ship navigates through diverse global waters, encountering a wide range of seawater temperatures and salinity levels, extreme weather conditions, and severe environmental challenges. Ensuring the structural integrity of the ship's hull under such harsh marine environments is of major importance for the safety of the crew, cargo and the success of these polar expeditions. The present study is focused on the precise identification of the ship's hull steel grade as a fundamental prerequisite for executing adequate and high-quality maintenance and repair procedures. To establish the exact classification and properties of the material, a comprehensive analytical approach was applied. The experimental methodology encompasses optical microscopy for microstructural evaluation, X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase composition analysis, Vickers surface microhardness testing to assess the mechanical characteristics, and potentiodynamic Tafel corrosion resistance test to evaluate the electrochemical corrosion behavior of the tested material. Determining the precise steel grade through these combined methods is a crucial step that dictates the correct technological approach to future maintenance. Ultimately, this accurate material identification significantly enhances the reliability, durability, and overall longevity of the ship's hull, ensuring the safe and uninterrupted conduct of future challenging expeditions.

Speakers: Prof. Momchil Manov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy - Varna, Bulgaria), Prof. Hristo Hristov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy - Varna, Bulgaria)

15:31 Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy: Bibliometric Analysis

Considering that artificial intelligence (AI) is the computer technology that has seen the most explosive growth in recent years, we try to explore its application in the context of the concept of sustainable development, and our focus is on the possibilities of artificial intelligence to stimulate the development of renewable energy sources. This is dictated by the interconnectedness and interdependence between the two areas of development – on the one hand, the need for "green energy" to power the artificial intelligence centers requires an increase in the production and consumption of energy from renewable sources, and on the other hand, an increase in the share of non-conventional energy sources requires an increase in storage capacity and energy efficiency, for which AI is relied upon. With this study, we aim to identify the areas of application of artificial intelligence in the field of renewable energy. Applying bibliometric analysis to the totality of publications subject to our research, we identify the leading authors and highlight their most significant developments, specify the sources with the highest concentration of publications and the countries from which they originate. By conducting a keyword co-occurrence analysis, we highlight the areas in which AI is used and the purposes for which it is applied. In conclusion, we formulate conclusions about the development of the leading technologies analyzed. Finally, the results of the proposed research can be used as a basis for future research and as a useful indicator of the direction of technological developments at the intersection between artificial intelligence and renewable energy sources.

Speaker: Ventsislava Nikolova-Minkova (Technical University of Gabrovo)

15:34 ON THE VIBRATIONS OF MULTI-CYLINDER MARINE DIESEL GENERATORS

In modern ship power plants with electric propulsion motors, the main ship power system consists of powerful multi-cylinder diesel generators. The engine and the generator are mounted on a common frame, which is attached to the ship's hull through resilient (elastic) elements.

Minimizing the vibrations induced in the ship's hull is achieved by refining the mechano-mathematical models. In the present work, this is performed using a mechano-mathematical model in which the diesel-generator-frame system is modeled as an elastic body with distributed parameters.

A model has been developed in which the ship's power plant undergoes vibrations in a single plane. The resulting system of differential equations describes the forced vibrations of the proposed dynamic model.

The natural frequencies of free vibrations have been obtained. Forced vibrations excited by the imbalance of the generator rotor are investigated.

Results from experimental studies of a nine-cylinder diesel generator are presented.

The presented theoretical and experimental results demonstrate the necessity of accounting for bending vibrations when investigating the overall vibrations of resiliently mounted multi-cylinder diesel generators.

Speaker: Mr Ivaylo Minchev (Naval Academy N.Vaptsarov)

15:37 AI-Enhanced Detection of ARP Spoofing-Based Man-in-the-Middle Attacks in Local Area Networks

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks remain a significant threat to local area networks, particularly when implemented through Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) spoofing. Although infrastructure-level protection mechanisms such as Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) are effective against conventional ARP poisoning attempts, their detection capability is limited in low-rate and insider-like scenarios, where malicious behavior may appear formally valid while remaining anomalous in context. This paper proposes a hybrid LAN protection architecture that combines DAI with an AI-based behavioral detection module to improve the identification of stealthy and context-dependent MitM activity. The proposed approach analyzes ARP, DHCP, and switch-port events using interpretable traffic features and a two-stage detection logic that integrates anomaly filtering and supervised classification. The system was evaluated in a controlled laboratory environment under three attack scenarios: classic high-rate ARP spoofing, low-rate stealth spoofing, and insider spoofing. The experimental results show that DAI alone performs very well in classic spoofing conditions, but its effectiveness decreases substantially in low-rate and insider scenarios. In contrast, the proposed DAI+AI architecture achieves the best overall balance between recall, precision, F1-score, detection latency, and false positive rate. The findings indicate that AI can effectively complement traditional infrastructure-level network defenses by providing behavioral awareness and improved sensitivity to attack patterns that are difficult to detect through rule-based inspection alone.

Speaker: Penka Markova (Technical University of Varna)

14:25 → 15:55 Defence and Security Technology: DS II

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1118: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395454791825767?p=Ro1nKtRb4wLo0HQQ6h

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1208: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria), Plamen Atanasov ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

14:25 CSR AND EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING IN SUSTAINABLE HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

This report analyses the role of corporate social responsibility in the formation and development of human capital in organizations, emphasizing employee well-being as a fundamental and mandatory stage in achieving sustainable organizational development. The analysis examines contemporary approaches through which companies integrate mental health policies, work-life balance and employee engagement within their CSR strategies. On this basis, it is argued that employee well-being, in addition to being part of corporate social responsibility, is also becoming an indispensable part of the strategic resource of the business organization for increasing productivity, innovation potential and long-term competitiveness of organizations.

Speaker: Kiril Anguelov (Technical University - Sofia)

14:40 MEDIATION AS A RISK MANAGEMENT INSTRUMENT REFRAMING ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT AS A MISSING STRUCTURAL ELEMENT IN ERM FRAMEWORKS

In contemporary organizations, risk is increasingly generated internally rather than imposed externally. Among the most underestimated sources of such internal risk are unresolved conflicts, communication breakdowns, and escalation dynamics within and between stakeholders. This paper advances the argument that mediation should be reframed from a purely legal or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism into a structured instrument within enterprise risk management (ERM) systems. More specifically, it argues that mediation is a missing structural element in ERM frameworks. By integrating mediation into the risk control architecture, organizations can transform conflict from a destabilizing factor into a managed process. The paper proposes a conceptual model positioning mediation as a distinct risk control layer and explores its implications for organizational resilience, decision-making speed, and value preservation.

Speaker: Georgi Dimitrov

14:55 MANAGING ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS THROUGH ESG

This study examines the potential for using Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) as a management framework for identifying, assessing and mitigating environmental risks within an organization. Against a backdrop of increasing regulatory pressure, climate uncertainty, resource constraints and heightened corporate reporting requirements, environmental risks are increasingly becoming a strategic management issue. This study argues that ESG should not be viewed solely as a tool for non-financial reporting, but as a conceptual and practical framework through which organizations can structure their mechanisms for monitoring, prioritizing and managing environmental impacts, dependencies and vulnerabilities. On this basis, the author proposes a model in which environmental risk is viewed as the interaction of three interrelated dimensions: exposure, impact and organizational vulnerability. The model allows different environmental issues to be compared using a unified logic, prioritized and linked to differentiated management responses. The study aims to establish a clearer link between regulatory frameworks, analytical risk management, and corporate governance.

Speaker: Dr Kiril Luchkov (Technical University of Sofia)

15:10 An Integrated Approach to the Security of Energy Infrastructure: Problems and Innovative Solutions

This report examines the security of energy infrastructure as a complex system requiring integrated management of different types of risks. The main vulnerabilities related to technological, cyber, and organizational factors are analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the need to enhance cyber resilience and the reliability of critical systems. Contemporary approaches to risk management under conditions of increasing complexity are also considered. In conclusion, proposals for improving strategic and operational practices are formulated.

Speaker: Dr Kiril Luchkov (Technical University of Sofia)

15:25 Verifying aspects an "Brute force" attack on 256 - AES encrypted voice stream

The rapid development of quantum technologies leads to new possibilities applying certain cryptographic attacks against symmetric algorithms. This paper discusses a verifying method an different approach to applying an "Brute force" attack on 256 - AES encrypted voice stream. While the classical attack application emphasizes computing power, here the focus is on signal processing.

Speaker: Ms Elitsa Petkova (Bulgaria)

15:35 CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY IN SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAINS: EXTENDED ROLES AND IMPLICATIONS

The concept of extended corporate social responsibility is explored in the context of increasing demands on companies to manage not only their own activities, but also the effects along the entire supply chain. The analysis focuses on the role of organizations in ensuring sustainable practices, including compliance with social and environmental standards by suppliers and partners. Special attention is paid to new regulatory frameworks and management approaches that require the integration of sustainability principles into the selection, assessment and control processes of supply chains. On this basis, the main challenges and opportunities facing companies in the context of increased demands and expectations for corporate social responsibility are outlined.

Speaker: Kiril Anguelov (Technical University - Sofia)

14:25 → 15:40 Defence and Security Technology: DS V

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1118: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395454791825767?p=Ro1nKtRb4wLo0HQQ6h

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1208: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Iliyan Lilov (Vasil Levski National Military Universiti), Svilen Stefanov (Vasil Levski National Military Universiti)

14:25 APPROACHES FOR MODELING OF A SHOPPING MALL EVACUATION

This paper discusses mathematical and simulation models that could be applied to shopping mall evacuation problems. The so-called macroscopic approaches are based on dynamic network flow models. The maximum dynamic flow problem and the quickest flow problem are formulated. The so-called microscopic approaches are based on simulation modelling through multi-agent systems. The possibilities for realistic reproduction of the pro-cesses are considered. On this basis, simple building layout is analysed.

Speaker: Prof. Iliyan Lilov (Vasil Levski National Military Universiti)

14:40 Comparative analysis of the national security strategies of Bulgaria, the USA, Russia and China through the prism of key security theories

In the context of accelerated geopolitical confrontation, militarization of technology, and the “extension” of security to economic, cyber, and societal dimensions, the study of different national security strategies allows us to understand not only what states say in their strategies, but also why they say it. This is critically important for security decision-makers as it will help them anticipate potential conflicts or areas of cooperation, recognizing when a state is acting out of fear (realism), when out of ideology (constructivism), and when out of pragmatic interest (liberalism). The analysis in this report focuses on examining the similarities and differences between the national security strategies of Bulgaria, the United States, Russia, and China, refracted through the prism of the key security theories: realism/neorealism, liberalism/neoliberalism, constructivism, and the Copenhagen School. Each of the countries mentioned is of a different caliber and geopolitical weight, but the choice is not accidental. The United States, Russia, and China represent the three main “power centers” of the modern world, and Bulgaria is the analytical “prism” through which to see how global tremors are felt at the local level.
The study is based on a review of official national security strategy documents and related doctrinal and sectoral policies in the areas of defense, cybersecurity, and international/foreign policy. The analysis integrates contemporary scholarly insights into the transformation of operational art and hybrid operations, emphasizing the need for doctrinal adaptability and theoretical clarity in a context of increasing strategic uncertainty.

Speaker: Daniel Berchev (Vasil Levski National Military University)

14:55 A Comprehensive Approach to Assessing the Security of Built Heritage Sites Using Fire Risk Analysis and Evaluation Methodology

Abstract: This article analyses the results of a scientific and practical study regarding the security of monastic complexes — designated as immovable cultural property in Bulgaria — utilizing a field-tested methodology for fire risk assessment. First, it outlines the core elements of the fire protection management system for cultural assets. Second, the article presents a comprehensive risk assessment methodology based on eight groups of indicators, categorized into variables (unmanageable), controllable (manageable) factors, and neutral conditions. Third, drawing from empirical survey data, key findings are identified and strategic recommendations are proposed — including the development of an “inclusive safety culture” and the integration of voluntary formations — to enhance the fire safety and overall security of these heritage sites.

Keywords: fire risk assessment methodology, immovable cultural property, inclusive safety culture, risk indicators.

Speaker: Galina Mileva

15:10 The Hybrid Warfare in the Cyberspace

After cyberspace built its own individual image and after the opinions that this new space has potential to be a war domain, the question about opportunities for undertaking hybrid warfare in it is gaining relevance. The present study is looking for the characteristics of this type of hybrid warfare and their relations with technological sovereignty in the field of national security. This construction defines cyberspace as the object and the hybrid warfare as the subject of this study. The aim of the research is to explain the vectors of warfare in the framework of hybrid challenges that stand before states, as well as to make visible the difference in the methods of hybrid warfare. Through a multidisciplinary analysis discovered, described and arranged are different approaches, with which developed countries like China, the USA, Russia and the United Kingdom react against challenges, such as the hardware and software dependency on the cyberspace in the context of politics, economics and defense.

Speaker: Mrs Evelina Atanasova ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

15:25 Integrating Green Building into National Defense Systems

This report examines the possibilities for integrating green building principles within the defense sector with the aim of improving the efficiency and sustainability of military infrastructure. It analyzes the relationship between resource efficiency and the operational capability of military facilities. Particular attention is given to the adaptation of construction standards to the specific requirements of the defense environment. The challenges associated with implementing sustainable solutions under conditions of increased security requirements are also considered. In conclusion, guidelines for improving policies in this area are formulated.

Speaker: Dr Kiril Luchkov (Technical University of Sofia)

14:25 → 15:55 Information Technology: IT II

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

Conveners: Arnis Cirulis (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences), Artis Teilans (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences)

14:25 Turbo Encoders with Hybrid Concatenated Convolutional Design and Turbo Decoders with Soft Input–Soft Output Design in Unmanned Aerial Systems

Nowadays, unmanned aerial systems play a very important role in the economy, environmental protection, research, and military operations. This is accompanied by constantly increasing requirements for the quality and accuracy of the information received and the commands issued.
The elements of these systems operate and perform their tasks by transmitting data and commands over communication radio channels that often face harsh conditions and limitations on frequency-time and energy resources. The conditions for data transfer and command transmission in unmanned aerial systems using channels via communication satellites are particularly difficult. In such channels, the occurrence of single and especially packet errors is a phenomenon with a high degree of probability.
The examination and evaluation of the potential capabilities of special class of turbo encoders – with hybrid concatenated convolutional design, to fight against the sever conditions in communication channels in unmanned aerial systems is the main purpose of this research work.
Possibilities for optimizing energy consumption and processing time of data flows on board unmanned aerial vehicles through dynamic parameter control of the corresponding turbo decoders with soft input-soft output design are also discussed.
Finally, conclusions, recommendations and directions for further research and the application of turbo encoders with hybrid concatenated convolutional design and turbo decoders with soft input and soft output in unmanned aerial systems are made.

Speaker: Mr Georgi Stanchev (Bulgarian Air Force Academy)

14:40 METHODS AND MODELS FOR IMAGE ENHANCEMENT IN LOW-LIGHT CONDITIONS

This article presents a comprehensive study of classical and modern approaches to enhancing images captured in low-light conditions. An adaptive ensemble method is proposed that combines four classical image processing algorithms and automatically weights them based on local quality. The developed system uses CLAHE, gamma correction, the Retinex algorithm, and automatic contrast stretching as its basic components. A comparative analysis of the developed method with the modern Deep Learning approach, Zero-DCE was conducted on the real-world LOL dataset. Additionally, the effects of four types of noise on the effectiveness of image enhancement were experimentally investigated. The experimental results show that the proposed classical ensemble approach achieves a PSNR of 17.91 dB, outperforming the machine learning model by 14.2 percent, while the method does not require a training phase on datasets or GPU computations.

Keywords: image enhancement, low-light enhancement, ensemble methods, CLAHE, Zero-DCE, adaptive weighting, image processing.

Speaker: Mariia Liashenko

14:55 Two Decades of Baltian-Latgalian Electronic Dictionary

We would like to present the dictionary we are collecting already for two decades as well as the electronic lexicographical system which is used for the creation of this dictionary and was especially developed twenty three years ago for this purpose. It is a good example of almost-without-financing long-term development strategies of IT systems for language technology purposes, and it could be succesfully used for creation of dictionaries of other endangered languages too.

Speaker: Ansis Ataols Bērziņš (Riga Technical College)

14:25 → 15:25 Laser Technology: LT II

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/370720276875519?p=0YScKEvJuAZhBdZq19

Conveners: Imants Adijāns (RTU Rezekne Academy), Lyubomir Lazov (Rezekne Academy of Riga Technical University)

14:25 METHOD FOR SYNTHESIS OF STATE CONTROLLER WITH OBSERVER FOR AN ELECTROHYDRAULIC POWER TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

This paper deals with the synthesis of state controller with observer for an electrohydraulic power transmission system. There is shown a method for synthesis of the state controller with observer and the realization for electrohydraulic system. The controller coefficients are obtained from preliminary defined performance definitions. The system has been modeled, and step responses curves are obtained from computer simulation. Main results are given in a few graphics.

Speaker: Hristo Hristov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

14:40 INFLUENCE OF PASS CONFIGURATION, RASTER STEP, AND SCANNING SPEED ON LASER COLOR MARKING OF AISI 304 STEEL

Experiments were carried out on the process of color marking with a fiber laser on AISI 304 steel samples. The influence of the number of passes - one (at 0°), two (at 0° and 90°) and three (at 0°, 60° and 120°), the raster step and the scanning speed on the roughness and the resulting colors was studied. R/G/B coordinates of all marked squares were obtained. The positions of the individual colors in the color space were determined. Graphs of the dependence of the roughness on the raster step were constructed for three speeds and for the three types of passes. The obtained results were analyzed and summarized.

Speaker: Nikolay Angelov

14:55 Bayesian Method for Recursive Combination of Measurement and Prior Information for Accuracy Improvement in Video-Based Measurements

This paper presents a Bayesian method for recursive fusion of prior and measurement information aimed at improving accuracy in video-based measurements. The approach is based on a probabilistic formulation of the estimation problem, where measurements are modeled as random variables with additive noise, and the system state is described by a prior distribution.
By applying a recursive Bayesian scheme, an algorithm for state estimate updating is derived, in which the estimate is formed as a weighted combination of prior information and the current measurement, with weights determined by the corresponding variances.
It is analytically shown that, under Gaussian assumptions, the proposed approach leads to a reduction in the dispersion of the estimate and consequently to improved accuracy in noisy measurement conditions. The theoretical results are validated through simulation studies under varying levels of measurement noise, demonstrating the robustness of the method under changing measurement conditions.

Speaker: Dimitar Dichev (Technical University of Gabrovo)

15:10 Development of a Method for Calibration of a Semiconductor Temperature Measurement Sensors

Temperature is one of the most commonly measured quantities in science and industry. Temperature can have a significant impact on the course of various processes therefore, its accurate measurement and control is a task of particular importance for every process in everyday life, science, and industry. Precise temperature measurement is used in all fields - electronics, communications, mechanical engineering and medicine, and determines the quality of the manufactured product. In this study, an experimental calibration was performed on a semiconductor thermistor with a nominal resistance of 10 kΩ in the temperature range from 0°C to 90°C. Based on the experimental data obtained, the coefficients of the Steinhart–Hart equation were determined, which allow for a more precision determination of the temperature from the measured resistance of the sensor.

Speaker: Tsanko Karadzhov (Technical University of Gabrovo)

16:00 → 18:00 City tour in Veliko Tarnovo

19:30 → 23:55 Dinner

DINNER at the Yantra restaurant, there will also be a projection of the Tsarevets light show - sound and light

Friday 26 June

09:00 → 10:00 VISIT to ''Vasil Levski'' National Military University: VV I

Convener: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

10:00 → 10:35 Registration, coffee

10:40 → 12:20 Poster session: Poster session III

Conveners: Desislava Petrova, Yanitsa Boyanova

10:40 Physical Vulnerability of Cyber Systems: Analysis of Incidents, Risk Factors and Security Strategies

Physical security is an essential yet often underestimated aspect of an overall cybersecurity strategy. While most efforts focus on protecting software and network infrastructure, the physical vulnerabilities of cyber systems also pose a significant threat. This study analyzes the interconnection between physical security and cybersecurity by examining both the risk factors leading to the compromise of cyber systems and the strategies for their mitigation. The research is based on an analysis of real incidents and employs a systematic approach to categorizing physical threats, their consequences and protective measures. The primary risks include unauthorized physical access, attacks on critical infrastructure, social engineering and the impact of natural disasters on cyber systems. The study highlights the need for an integrated security approach that combines traditional cyber defense measures with physical mechanisms to prevent breaches. Based on the analysis, recommendations are formulated to strengthen the physical security of cyber systems, including the implementation of advanced access control methods, monitoring through intelligent technologies and the adaptation of security policies to a dynamically changing environment. The research contributes to the understanding of cyber-physical threats and underscores the importance of a holistic approach to ensuring the reliability and resilience of cyber infrastructure.

Speaker: Nikolay Penev (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT))

10:43 Intelligent production and business processes: application in the mechanical engineering enterprises of Northeastern Region, Bulgaria

The article presents the application of smart manufacturing and the digitalization of business processes in mechanical engineering enterprises in the Northeastern region of Bulgaria. The aim is to investigate the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on energy efficiency, productivity, and return on investment. The applied methodology uses energy indicators such as energy intensity, energy per employee, and return on investment, based on industrial data for the country and the region. The results reveal significant optimization potential, showing that even moderate measures to improve energy efficiency can generate substantial savings for an industry that, in recent years, has been characterized by high dynamics in both demand and supply. The report emphasizes the strategic importance of digital technologies for the sustainable industrial development of the region, while also noting that Bulgarian industrial enterprises are, on average, 2.7 times less energy-efficient than enterprises in the same sector in the EU. The situation in recent months, related to escalating geopolitical tensions including military actions in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East (notably Iran) has led to substantial volatility and a sharp increase in energy prices on global markets. Rising energy costs are directly reflected in final production prices, which worsens the price competitiveness of Bulgarian industrial enterprises and further amplifies the negative effect of their relatively low energy efficiency.

Speaker: Siyka Demirova (TU-Varna, Bulgaria)

10:46 Empirical Study of Incident Response Practices for Personal Data Breaches in Bulgarian Organizations

This paper presents an empirical study of incident response practices related to personal data breaches in Bulgarian organizations. The study examines how organizations detect, assess, and manage incidents involving personal data in accordance with personal data protection requirements. The research is based on data collected through a survey conducted among organizations from different economic sectors in Bulgaria. The analysis focuses on the existence of internal incident response procedures, the level of organizational preparedness, and the awareness of obligations arising from personal data breach incidents. The results reveal differences among organizations in terms of organizational measures, staff training, and incident management practices. Based on the analysis, conclusions are drawn regarding the implementation of incident response procedures and the management of personal data breach incidents in an organizational environment.

Speaker: Prof. Martin Zahriev (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT))

10:49 Investigation of the Influence of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Amorphous Carbon on the Mechanical Properties of Thermosetting Polymers

Composites based on thermosetting polymers (epoxy, polyester, and vinyl ester resins) with incorporated carbon particles have been developed. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and amorphous carbon, a waste by-product from the production of “green” hydrogen, were used.
The influence of different concentrations (0.02 wt%, 0.06 wt%, 0.1 wt%, 1 wt%, and 2 wt%) of both types of particles on the mechanical properties of the developed composites was investigated, and a comparative analysis was performed.

Speaker: Boyan Dochev

10:52 Study of the Influence of Tire Air Pressure on Natural Frequencies of a MacPherson Suspension

The natural frequencies affect ride comfort and stability of vehicle. This paper presents the results of the natural frequencies of a quarter car MacPherson suspension system, obtained with different tire pressures and by using bushings made from different materials. The natural frequencies and mode shapes were obtained from finite element analysis (FEA) and the natural frequencies were also obtained by the using Frequency Response Function. To perform the analyses, an experimental study of the accelerations of various components of the quarter suspension was conducted. The experimental test was conducted of the MacPherson strut suspension system of an Audi A3 passenger car using a rubber bushing and a polyurethane bushing, mounted on the arm. The results were compared and analyzed

Speakers: Krasimir Ambarev, Stiliyana Taneva

10:55 BENCHMARKING FOR INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN STRATEGIC FIRM MANAGEMENT

The article focuses on conducting a benchmarking study to identify and analyze good practices for integrating artificial intelligence into strategic management at the company level. By comparing and evaluating effective models, tools, and approaches, key success factors, benefits, and risks in implementing AI in strategic planning processes, making informed management decisions, and achieving sustainable competitive advantage have been identified. Benchmarking is considered an effective tool for reducing risk, optimizing resources, and increasing efficiency. The conclusions and recommendations made are applicable to improving strategic planning processes and increasing the competitiveness of organizations in the digital business environment.

Speaker: Prof. Neli Nikolova (Technical University of Gabrovo, Bulgaria)

10:58 3D and Line Scanning Camera System Concept in Real-Time Wood Processing

The increasing complexity of modern manufacturing systems requires companies to design and develop a contemporary framework with high degree of accuracy and speed. The demand for precise and fast equipment in wood processing and other industries is topical within modern progress of Machine Learning, more powerful computing systems and approaches. To meet this challenge and to be in pace with Industry 5.0 advancements they rely heavily on real-time systems, which are essential tools for assessing dynamics of manufacturing data. In the paper, the research project focuses on developing an advanced 3D and line-scanning camera system concept for real-time wood defect detection and labelling. High-performance computing (HPC) technologies and FPGA-based (Field-Programmable Gate Array) for real-time processing will be employed to ensure high scanning speed and precision. Additionally, the research will focus on creating the necessary computing algorithms and a set of diagnostic, calibration, and maintenance technologies to optimize the performance and reliability of the scanning system. As the critical step for framework elaboration, the development of a conceptual model for the camera system and evaluation of technological options that would ensure effective recognition of wood defects, as well as creation of a basis for further technological development are performed.

Speaker: Vladimirs Šatrevičs (Riga Technical University)

11:01 A SURVEY ON CYBERBULLYING IN SMALL AND MEDIUM- SIZED HI-TECH ENTERPRISES IN THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA

Digital technologies create conveniences for work and interaction of the human factors in an online
environment, but at the same time, problems arise when using them. The integration of digital technologies into
the business practice of high-tech enterprises is a natural process through which the human factors communicates
and creates business content. Since a large part of communication processes are carried out online and physical
interaction between people decreases, the opportunities for unregulated use of ICT technologies are increasing.
This communication connectivity through computer networks, software platforms, social media and mobile
devices creates prerequisites for cyberbullying in the workplace. The publication has conducted a preliminary
study on the impact of cyberbullying in an online environment and the consequences for the emotional and
psychological state and health of people. Small and medium-sized high-tech enterprises on the territory of three
large cities in the Republic of Bulgaria were studied, using a quantitative approach in the development of an
online survey through which empirical data was generated. Based on the results, an analysis of the manifestation
of cyberbullying was conducted in order to identify its impact and consequences for the human factors in a
working environment.

Speaker: Ivaylo Stoyanov (University of telecommunications and post)

11:04 Development of a 3D and Line-Scanning Camera for Automatic Wood Defect Marking

The industrial sector is focused on efficiency of an industrial vision through automation as one of the most popular solutions as in recent decades. The main bottleneck of the process is image processing due to high speed and precision. Graphic processing units (GPUs) and Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGAs) have been proposed for real-time detection, where tasks are now performed repeatedly by machines assisting or replacing humans, reducing the occurrence of errors. New frameworks are trying to be in pace with Industry 5.0 advancements and to rely heavily on real-time sensor systems, with integration to Smart Factory which are essential for assessing dynamics of industrial data. In the paper, the research project focuses on developing an application of innovative combined 3D and line-scan camera system capable of simultaneously capturing visual and 3D information and identifying wood properties such as fiber direction and resin pockets. The camera employs laser triangulation and controlled LED illumination for precise wood structure analysis, while high-speed Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with High-performance computing (HPC) technologies enables real-time image analysis in-camera. Additionally, the research will focus on presenting fully functional prototype with discussion on modular system architecture scalability and parallel development of FPGA and AI components in simulation, moving closer to industrial implementation in subsequent stages. As the critical step for framework elaboration, the development of a functional application in manufacturing environment of FPGA firmware, laser triangulation, line-scan imaging, controlled illumination, trigger boards, and AI modules and evaluation of technological options that would ensure effective recognition of wood defects, as well as creation of a basis for further technological development are performed.

Speaker: Vladimirs Šatrevičs (Riga Technical University)

11:07 Investigation of Differences in Light Transmission in Translucent Materials Used in Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing has undergone significant development over the past decade and is becoming increasingly prevalent in manufacturing. Additive printing technologies facilitate the expeditious and straightforward fabrication of prototypes and components for a range of applications, which can be utilised across diverse industrial sectors. A substantial corpus of studies has been amassed in scientific databases, examining the mechanical, chemical, and physical properties of 3D printing materials. However, information regarding their optical properties and characteristics remains limited. The present article presents measurements of the total light transmittance of various 3D-printed samples. The samples exhibit variation in terms of colour and thickness. The samples were produced using the same machine, the same material, and identical manufacturing parameters. The additive manufacturing technology that has been selected for further investigation is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Each test sample was measured 30 times at varying light source intensities, and the results were subjected to a normal distribution test. A thorough analysis of the measurement results was conducted, and the resulting data were presented in tabular and graphical formats.

Speakers: Mr Atanas Radulov, Mr Mario Dechev, Mr Teodor Demirev

11:10 Surface Modification of Steel 1.2343 (EN ISO 4957) by Ion Nitriding

The present study examines the surface modification of tool steel 1.2343 by ion nitriding. Prior to the chemical-thermal treatment process, the specimens of the investigated steel were subjected to quenching and tempering. The heat treatment included vacuum quenching and triple tempering, achieving structural stabilization before the diffusion saturation process.
Ion nitriding was carried out at a temperature of 490°C for 16 hours. Microstructural analysis revealed that no compound layer consisting of ε and γ′ phases was formed; instead, a diffusion layer with uniform thickness (250 µm) was observed. The influence of the ion nitriding process on the resulting hardness was investigated, as well as the variation of hardness with depth—from the surface to the core of the specimens. Tribological tests were performed to determine the coefficient of friction and the wear rate after the diffusion saturation process.

Speaker: Desislava Dimova

11:13 Wear resistance of medium alloyed tool steels after single-component surface enrichment

Results are presented for the influence of the type of chemical-thermal treatment in single-component surface enrichment on the wear resistance of the formed diffusion layers on samples of chromium tool steels (1÷5%Cr). Wear resistance is defined as mass loss per unit area (g/cm2 ) after a distance of 1÷5 km. The loading in the wear process is carried out by a lever system with a load of 3÷100 MPa, and the speed of rotation of the counterbody is 0.1÷7.0 m/s. Dependencies for the wear intensity of the studied steels in coordinates mass loss / distance traveled have been developed.

Speaker: Beata Vlahova

11:16 Influence of strength characteristics on the technological parameters of the boroaluminizing process

At present, data on the influence of boroaluminizing on the mechanical properties of steels are scarce and contradictory. This publication presents a mathematical model for determining the strength characteristics of medium-alloyed quality steel and their influence on the technological characteristics of the boroaluminizing process (saturation times, quenching and tempering temperatures). Based on the mathematical model, graphical relationships for Rm, R0.2 and A5 as a function of the technological characteristics of the boroaluminizing process have been developed.

Speaker: Beata Vlahova

11:19 Lightweight Comparative Evaluation of Quantum and Hybrid Quantum-Classical Machine Learning Models for Intrusion Detection

Quantum machine learning (QML) has recently emerged as a promising research direction at the intersection of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Among its potential applications, intrusion detection remains particularly relevant due to the growing complexity of cyber threats and the increasing need for adaptive and efficient detection mechanisms. This paper explores the applicability of lightweight quantum and hybrid quantum-classical machine learning approaches for intrusion detection in resource-constrained experimental settings. The study is designed as a comparative analysis of selected models, including variational and kernel-based quantum techniques, alongside a conventional classical baseline, in order to evaluate their practical potential for cybersecurity tasks.
The experimental framework relies on a reduced and preprocessed cybersecurity dataset and is implemented in a simulated quantum environment using accessible open-source tools. The comparison considers standard performance indicators such as classification effectiveness and computational efficiency, while also reflecting on broader dimensions of model suitability for security-oriented applications. In addition to the technical evaluation, the paper addresses several ethical considerations associated with the use of QML in cybersecurity, including limited transparency, risks related to biased or imbalanced training data, and the operational implications of incorrect classifications in intrusion detection scenarios.
Rather than claiming immediate quantum advantage, the study aims to provide a realistic and methodologically grounded perspective on the current role of QML in cybersecurity research. The expected contribution is twofold - first, to outline a feasible experimental approach for evaluating QML methods in intrusion detection and second, to highlight the importance of combining performance-oriented assessment with ethical and interpretability-related considerations when examining emerging intelligent security solutions.

Speaker: Genadiy Gospodinov

11:22 An integrated simulation model for maritime cybersecurity: A comparative research analysis approach

This paper presents the development of an integrated simulation model for maritime cybersecurity training, based on a comparative analysis of existing training platforms. For the purposes of the study, leading international and industrial solutions were evaluated, including Cyber-SHIP Lab, Naval Cyber Range, CDeX Maritime Cybersecurity Scenario, SeaSAFER, K-Sim, and NavSim. Through the applied comparative approach, the advantages and limitations of standalone physical and virtual training environments were identified. Based on these findings, a new, integrated hybrid model was designed that conceptually combines real ship bridge infrastructure with dynamic virtual cyberattack scenarios. It is concluded that the proposed architecture improves trainee preparation by simultaneously developing technical competencies, analytical thinking, and crew coordination in managing cyber incidents at sea.
Keywords: integrated model, maritime cybersecurity, comparative analysis, hybrid simulators, simulation training.

Speakers: Ekaterina Dyankova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy), Dilyana Dimitrova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

11:25 Automated Vulnerability Assessment in Windows Active Directory and Oracle Database Environments Using PowerShell and SQL*Plus

Modern enterprise infrastructures combine directory services, server operating systems, and database platforms, which significantly expand the attack surface and complicate security assessment. Manual reviews are often time-consuming, inconsistent, and difficult to reproduce across different environments. This paper presents an academic framework for automated vulnerability assessment in heterogeneous enterprise infrastructures using PowerShell for Windows/Active Directory environments and SQLPlus for Oracle Database environments.
The main contribution of this work is a unified cross-platform methodology for automated security assessment across both operating system and database layers, which can support internal audit, compliance validation, and continuous vulnerability monitoring in complex enterprise environments.
Keywords: vulnerability assessment, security automation, PowerShell, SQLPlus, Active Directory, Oracle Database, configuration auditing

Speaker: Vasil Slavyanov (Vasil Levski National Military University)

11:28 A Scalable Reliability Estimation Algorithm for Complex Computer Networks under Dynamic Conditions with AI-based Extensions

This scientific article proposes a modern mathematical algorithm designed to improve workflow and enhance the efficiency of reliability assessment in computer networks. The primary objective of the research is to develop an advanced method for predicting and analyzing potential failures in complex computer environments. The proposed algorithm incorporates contemporary modeling approaches, innovative optimization techniques and information flow analysis to enable improved planning and resource allocation, while significantly reducing downtime and repair interventions in critical computer-based technical systems. The results obtained demonstrate the algorithm's potential for application across a broad spectrum of sectors, including both industrial and educational domains involving computer devices. Specifically, it is applicable in areas where the reliability of computer and network infrastructure plays a key role in maintaining high levels of operational productivity and technical safety. Additionally, elements of artificial intelligence are introduced as a supplementary component to enhance adaptability and support predictive analysis under dynamic conditions.

Speakers: Silvia Nikolova, Daniel Denev

11:31 Electronic evidence in criminal and civil proceedings: technologies, challenges and perspectives

In the contemporary digital environment, electronic evidence has become a fundamental element in both criminal and civil proceedings. The accelerated evolution and pervasive integration of information technologies into routine activities, communication, and business processes has led to a substantial augmentation in the volume and significance of digital data as potential evidence. This evolution has created a pressing need for a coherent, consistent, and technologically informed legal framework to regulate the collection, preservation, evaluation, and admissibility of electronic evidence in judicial proceedings.
Notwithstanding the ongoing evolution of the legal landscape, the utilisation of electronic evidence continues to be encumbered by a plethora of intricate challenges. These include the authentication, integrity, and reliability of digital data, as well as the mitigation of risks associated with data manipulation, cybersecurity threats, and cross-border data access. Furthermore, discrepancies in procedural regulations between criminal and civil proceedings have the potential to result in inconsistencies in the handling and assessment of electronic evidence.
The present article undertakes a comparative analysis of the legal framework governing electronic evidence in both criminal and civil contexts, with a view to identifying common principles and key distinctions. Furthermore, it delves into pertinent jurisprudence, emphasising existing regulatory lacunae and practical challenges that emerge in the implementation of legal standards within technologically sophisticated settings.
The objective of the present article is twofold. Firstly, the present study seeks to analyse the current legal regulation of electronic evidence and its alignment with technological realities. Secondly, it evaluates the challenges encountered during its application and proposes directions for improvement. It is imperative to emphasise the importance of enhancing legal certainty, procedural fairness, and the effective integration of technological solutions in evidence handling processes. The study emphasises the necessity of a balanced approach that ensures both the reliability of electronic evidence and the protection of fundamental rights in judicial proceedings.

Speakers: Prof. Sandra Kaija (Riga Stradiņš University), Prof. Inga Kudeikina (Riga Stradiņš University)

11:34 Tensile strength of copper alloyed structural powder steels

The publication traces the influence of the type of iron powder and the sintering process in the presence of a liquid phase on the tensile strength of powder metallurgical samples from the Fe-C-Cu system. Powder metallurgical samples of three types of iron powders – ASC 100.29, SC 100.26 and NC 100.2 – were studied. The iron matrix is alloyed with 2.5%Cu and 0.2÷0.8%C. After sintering, their density is in the range of 6.20÷7.00g/cm3. Graphical dependences for the change in tensile strength depending on the density of the samples and the concentration of carbon and copper in them are presented.

Speaker: Beata Vlahova

11:37 An Optimized Model for CPU Load Evaluation in the Execution of Code Structures and Script-Based Algorithms

The introduction of models for analyzing the impact of script-based algorithms in web applications on overall CPU load is becoming increasingly important in modern computing environments. However, there is a limited availability of specialized analytical tools and models addressing this problem.
In response to this gap, a model has been developed to evaluate CPU load based on key scalar performance indicators. The proposed model represents temporal and computational characteristics of code execution through measurable scalar parameters, enabling a structured assessment of processing demand.
The model has undergone optimization, resulting in improved accuracy of performance metrics, enhanced process stability, increased precision of evaluation results, and overall improved computational efficiency. Additionally, the optimized model contributes to better system responsiveness and user-perceived performance.
This paper presents an optimized approach for CPU load evaluation during the execution of code structures and script-based algorithms, offering a practical tool for performance analysis and optimization in web-based systems.

Speakers: Valentin Atanasov, Daniel Denev

11:40 Efficient and Trustworthy Anti-Corruption AI: Leveraging Model Pruning for Secure Deployment in Critical Systems

Corruption in public procurement, financial transactions, and administrative processes presents substantial threats to national and international security, compromising integrity in defense logistics, resource distribution, and governance frameworks. Artificial intelligence, especially machine learning models for finding unusual patterns, spotting fraud, and predicting risk, has become a powerful tool in the fight against corruption. But big AI models often have trouble being used in secure, resource-limited settings (like edge devices used for military or public sector monitoring). These problems include high computational needs, susceptibility to adversarial attacks, and limited interpretability, all of which can make them less trustworthy and secure.
This study examines model pruning techniques, including structured and unstructured pruning, as well as magnitude-based and lottery ticket hypothesis-inspired approaches, to create compact and efficient anti-corruption AI models with minimal accuracy degradation. These pruned models run faster, use much less memory, and can be used on edge devices or in secure environments with limited resources. They also do a great job of finding key corruption signals like bid-rigging, suspiciously short tender deadlines, single-bid wins, or irregular fund flows.
The proposed approach offers a pathway for integrating robust, lightweight anti-corruption AI into defense and security technologies, supporting decision support systems and infrastructure protection. This work bridges artificial intelligence advancements with secure technology development for enhanced societal integrity and resilience.

Speaker: Tamara Ristovska

11:43 Performance and Resilience Analysis of GRE over IPsec Tunnels in Dynamic Routing Networks

This paper presents the design and experimental evaluation of Generic Routing Encapsulation over Internet Protocol Security tunnels in dynamic routing networks. The study is motivated by the need to provide secure inter site connectivity while preserving support for dynamic route exchange between remote network segments. A laboratory topology is developed to examine the behavior of the proposed tunnel architecture under normal operation and during network failures. The evaluation focuses on key indicators including throughput, delay, jitter, packet loss, and routing convergence time. In addition, resilience is assessed through controlled disruption and recovery scenarios in order to measure tunnel stability, service continuity, and network reconvergence. The results are used to analyze the balance between secure communication and the performance impact introduced by encapsulation and tunnel protection. Particular attention is given to the practical suitability of this approach for distributed networks that require both protected traffic transmission and flexible routing operation. The study shows that GRE over IPsec remains an effective solution for secure dynamic routing environments when performance limitations and recovery characteristics are properly considered in network design and deployment.

Speaker: Penka Markova (Technical University of Varna)

11:46 A Conceptual Model for Information Security Assessment in Judicial Information Systems Based on Risk and Regulatory Requirements

The increasing digitalization of the judicial sector requires the implementation of complex information systems that ensure high levels of information security, especially when processing sensitive and classified data. However, the application of security requirements in such environments is often fragmented due to the complexity of regulatory frameworks and the lack of structured approaches for risk assessment.
This paper proposes a conceptual model for information security assessment in judicial information systems based on risk and regulatory requirements. The model integrates fundamental principles of information security, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with applicable legal and organizational constraints. It provides a structured approach for identifying assets, assessing risks, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and selecting appropriate security measures.
The proposed model is designed to support decision-making processes and improve the effectiveness of security implementation during the deployment of complex information systems in the judicial sector. The results demonstrate that the model enhances the consistency and traceability of security-related decisions and facilitates alignment with established security standards and legal requirements.

Speaker: Mr Nikolay Koev (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT))

11:49 Analysis of Software and Organizational Solutions for Supporting Innovation Management in Industrial Enterprises in the Context of Industry 4.0

This paper presents a structured analysis of existing software and organizational solutions that support innovation management in industrial enterprises within the context of Industry 4.0. The increasing digitalization of manufacturing systems, integration of cyber-physical technologies, and data-driven decision-making processes have significantly transformed how innovation activities are managed and implemented.
The study adopts a literature review approach, synthesizing findings from recent academic publications, industry reports, and relevant case studies. The analysis focuses on key categories of software solutions, including innovation management platforms, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, knowledge management systems, and collaborative digital tools, alongside organizational practices such as open innovation models, agile management approaches, and cross-functional team structures.
The results highlight that the effective integration of software tools with organizational capabilities is critical for enhancing innovation performance. Furthermore, the findings reveal that industrial enterprises face challenges related to system interoperability, organizational resistance to change, and the alignment of digital strategies with innovation objectives.
The paper contributes by systematizing existing knowledge and identifying key trends and gaps in the field, providing a foundation for future research and practical implementation of innovation management solutions in industrial environments.

Speaker: Daniela Toneva

11:52 Development of a Methodological Framework for Integrating Intelligent Technologies in Engineering Innovation Management

This paper proposes a comprehensive methodological framework for integrating intelligent technologies into engineering innovation management processes. In the context of rapid digital transformation, organizations increasingly rely on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and data-driven decision-making to enhance innovation performance. The study combines theoretical analysis with an empirical investigation to validate the applicability of the proposed framework. The results demonstrate improved efficiency, reduced uncertainty, and enhanced strategic alignment in innovation processes.

Speaker: Daniela Toneva

11:55 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN LOGISTICS: ADOPTION PATTERNS, PERFORMANCE EFFECTS, AND MARKET STRUCTURE

The aim of the paper is to analyze the impact of AI implementation on logistics performance and to develop an action framework that can be used to measure the improved efficiency achieved with AI in an environment of scarce available data. This paper examines the use of AI in the logistics sector in Bulgaria. The study assesses revenue distribution and market concentration to determine when the introduction of AI can be expected to have significant positive effects. A methodological approach is also proposed for the analysis of AI and operational efficiency, and a basis for future research is provided when better information becomes available. Furthermore, the present study focuses on large logistics companies that have the technological and economic means to build AI-based solutions at different levels in their operations. Performance measures, including delivery time, fuel consumption and forecast reliability, are used to highlight the efficiency improvements that are available through the adoption of AI. This article offers an assessment of the efficiency gains from artificial intelligence in logistics operations and proposes that from a scientific perspective, artificial intelligence should be used to consider efficiency gains in order to analyze the limited empirical data.

Speaker: Siyka Demirova

10:40 → 12:30 Defence and Security Technology: DS III

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1118: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395454791825767?p=Ro1nKtRb4wLo0HQQ6h

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1208: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria), Plamen Atanasov ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

10:40 Digital Sustainability: The Role of Smart HR Tools in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract
This chapter explores how digital transformation, smart HR tools, and AI-driven systems are reshaping Sustainable Human Resource Management (SHRM) and accelerating organizational progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It argues that digital sustainability is not only a technological shift but a strategic framework that integrates automation, data analytics, digital communication, and intelligent HR platforms to reduce environmental impact, optimize workflows, and enhance the employee experience.
The chapter investigates how digital tools - such as AI-based recruitment, cloud HR systems, automated performance management, virtual collaboration platforms, and digital well-being applications - can lower the organizational carbon footprint by minimizing paper usage, reducing travel, and improving energy efficiency. These technologies also strengthen employee motivation, support flexible work models, and foster higher levels of engagement by enabling personalized learning, transparent communication, and more inclusive decision-making.
Particular attention is given to the delicate balance between technological efficiency and the “human factor,” highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence, ethical AI, and human-centered digital design. Drawing on international studies and case evidence from European and Asian contexts, the chapter demonstrates how organizations that integrate both digital innovation and human values achieve more sustainable performance, stronger talent retention, and a healthier organizational culture.

Keywords:
Digital Transformation; Sustainable HRM; AI and Automation; Employee Motivation; SDGs

Speaker: Prof. Stoyko Stoykov (Vasil Levski National Military University)

10:55 Integrated Study of Ocean Warming, CO₂ Uptake, and Acidification under Anthropogenic Emissions

The anthropogenic increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), has significant impacts on the thermal and chemical state of the world’s oceans. This study presents an integrated analysis of ocean warming, CO₂ absorption, and ocean acidification resulting from anthropogenic emissions. The research focuses on the relationship between heat accumulation in ocean surface waters, the uptake of atmospheric CO₂, and the consequent variation in pH values of ocean waters. A thermodynamic calorimetric approach is applied to estimate temperature changes in the upper ocean layer and to evaluate the amount of heat absorbed by ocean waters over time.
The suggested method relates the absorbed heat to temperature variation using thermodynamic relations involving the mass of ocean water and its specific heat capacity. Calculated temperature variations are compared with observed data in order to validate the approach. In addition, the absorption of CO₂ by ocean waters is analyzed as a key factor influencing the concentration of hydrogen ions and the resulting decrease in pH values. Based on this relationship, a quantitative expression is derived that describes the variation of ocean pH as a function of the absorbed mass of carbon dioxide.
The study also considers the role of marine phytoplankton in the global carbon cycle. Phytoplankton populations contribute significantly to the fixation of atmospheric CO₂ through photosynthesis and are responsible for a substantial portion of global oxygen production. Using available biomass estimates, the potential capacity of phytoplankton to reduce excess CO₂ in ocean surface waters is evaluated. The analysis suggests that a relatively small increase in phytoplankton biomass could contribute to the mitigation of accumulated anthropogenic CO₂.
The results demonstrate that the calculated temperature and pH variations are consistent with measured trends over recent decades. The proposed combined thermodynamic and chemical approach provides a simplified framework for assessing the state of ocean waters and the influence of anthropogenic emissions on marine environmental processes.

Speaker: Dr Mihai Petrov (Burgas State Uiversity "Pr. Assen Zlatarov")

11:10 APPLICATION OF THE “BROKEN WINDOWS” THEORY IN THE CONTEXT OF MILITARY ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE

This article examines the applicability of the criminological “broken windows” theory in the context of military organizational behavior and the maintenance of military discipline. It analyzes the conceptual relationship between this theory and the phenomenon of the “normalization of deviance,” substantiating their complementarity in explaining the processes of disciplinary erosion within military organizations. The study further explores the mechanisms through which the tolerance of minor violations gradually erodes organizational culture and creates an environment conducive to more serious breaches.

Speaker: Sabin Sabev (University of Agribusiness and Rural Development (UARD))

11:25 Competing Thermodynamic and Radiative Effects on Atmospheric Circulation in Polluted Environments

This study presents a unified theoretical framework integrating thermodynamic and radiative feedback mechanisms in the anthropogenically modified atmosphere. Building on two complementary approaches—an adiabatic-calorimetric model quantifying changes in specific heat capacity (cp) and adiabatic constant (γ) from O₂ and CO₂ mass variations, and a radiation-balance model linking albedo (ΔA) to temperature and heat accumulation—we derive a master equation describing relative wind speed variation (Δu/u) as a function of both thermodynamic and radiative perturbations. The analysis reveals that atmospheric pollutants introduce two competing effects: (1) thermodynamic damping, where polyatomic molecules and aerosols reduce γ and cp, slowing winds by up to 20%; and (2) albedo forcing, where increased reflectivity from scattering aerosols contributes positively to wind acceleration. The net effect is governed by a dimensionless Feedback Ratio Φ, defined as the ratio of the albedo term to the combined thermodynamic terms. For Φ<1, thermodynamic damping dominates, leading to wind stilling characteristic of black-carbon-dominated industrial regions. For Φ>1, albedo effects prevail, producing stable or slightly enhanced winds typical of marine or sulfate-rich environments. The transition between regimes depends critically on aerosol composition, with scattering aerosols (sulfates, sea salt) driving negative stabilizing feedbacks, and absorbing aerosols (black carbon, PM₂.₅) driving positive destabilizing feedbacks. These findings demonstrate that accurate climate projections require not only greenhouse gas concentrations but also detailed accounting of aerosol composition and its coupled interactions with atmospheric dynamics. The proposed framework offers a quantitative basis for understanding the complex, non-linear relationship between air quality and circulation intensity.

Speaker: Mihai Petrov (Burgas State Uiversity "Pr. Assen Zlatarov")

11:40 Cultural Parasitism: The Transposition of Foreign Cultural Models as a Threat to National Security

In biology, parasitism is a form of symbiosis in which one organism—the parasite—extracts resources from another organism—the host—thereby progressively weakening its viability. When the parasitic burden exceeds a critical threshold, the host perishes, and not infrequently the parasite itself perishes as well. This biological analogy proves to be strikingly apt in the analysis of processes observed in contemporary European societies: the large-scale and unregulated influx of cultural models fundamentally incompatible with the value system of the receiving society operates according to the same destructive logic. The foreign cultural model does not adapt to its environment; rather, it reshapes that environment, exhausts its institutional resources, and undermines its capacity for self-reproduction.

The paper examines the transfer of foreign cultural models by immigrant communities not as a neutral social process, but as a potential threat to national security in its societal dimension.

Speaker: Prof. Sabin Sabev (University of Agribusiness and Rural Development (UARD))

11:55 Leadership Expectations Across Strategic, Operational, and Tactical C2 Levels in a Hypothetical Military Operation: The Influence of Procedural Justice, Trust in Leaders, and Digitalization in Peacetime Settings

A two-layered analytical approach was applied to assess the influence of actual experience with the state and functioning of procedural justice, trust in leadership, and the level of digitalization of equipment in military formations in a peacetime context on service members’ expectations regarding the performance of strategic, operational, and tactical levels of leadership in the command and control (C2) system during a hypothetical operational scenario. The adopted methodological framework allows for a parallel analysis of the substantive relationships among the included variables while simultaneously accounting for the mental transition between cognitive representations of actual experience and those constructed at the level of abstract hypothesizing.
In conditions of compressed timeframes and escalating complexity, dynamism, and multi-layered operational environments, modern C2 system are conceptualized around the principle of centralized command and decentralized execution, which functions as a system-forming mechanism for maintaining operational tempo and ensuring coordination coherence across different levels of command.
Procedural justice in peacetime and established trust in leadership are recognized as fundamental prerequisites for effective mission command, as they foster perceptions of legitimacy, commitment, and willingness to take initiative at lower levels of command.
Digitalization, including the development of artificial intelligence transforms command into the so-called “digital mission command” (NATO, 2020) emphasizing the achievement of decision superiority. This requires leaders at all levels to interpret and effectively act upon digitally provided information, thereby enabling closer and faster alignment between strategic objectives and tactical actions on the battlefield.
The empirical study was conducted on a representative sample of 1,600 service members and included analysis of data collected through a battery of questionnaires covering psychological and organizational measures.
Correlation and mediation analyses demonstrate that procedural justice, trust in leadership, and digitalization exert systematic and multi-level effects on expectations of leadership effectiveness in C2 systems in the context of real operational scenario. The results indicate that digitalization and trust in leadership enhance command effectiveness through the mediating role of procedural justice, with digitalization exhibiting a stronger mediating effect than trust.

Speaker: Teodora Georgieva (Rakovski National Defence College)

12:10 Comparative Analysis of Motivational Factors for Service in the Bulgarian Armed Forces (2017–2025)

This study focuses on the dynamics of motivational factors for service in the Bulgarian Armed Forces. It aims to guide management policies toward enhancing motivation and retention of personnel within the context of a constantly changing security environment.
The analysis is based on a cross-sectional study of two independent representative samples of military personnel. Each of them comprises of approximately 1,500 respondents. Primary data were collected through a direct anonymous survey conducted within two representative empirical sociological studies of the Bulgarian Armed Forces. The latter were carried out in 2017 and 2025, respectively. The period between the two surveys provides a relatively broad time horizon for conducting a comparative analysis of mean values and the rank structure of motivational factors.
The results indicate an increased significance of factors related to social security, remuneration, and the balance between professional and personal life. At the same time, there is a gradual decline in the influence of traditionally dominant internal motivators for service. The observed dynamics reflect the impact of the changing institutional and socio-economic environment on the motivational priorities of the military personnel.
The study provides up-to-date empirical data on the transformation of military personnel’s motivational attitudes, in which the amount of remuneration, job security and the balance between professional and personal life are of leading importance.
Recommendations from the analysis include the introduction of personalized incentives, improvement of social benefits, and systematic monitoring of motivational trends to update motivation strategies and human resource management policies. Aligning management practices with the factor structure of military personnel’s motivational attitudes contributes to personnel retention, enhances individual and organizational effectiveness, and strengthens operational readiness within the national security and defense system.

Speaker: Dr Teodora Grozdanova (Assistant Professor, Research Section "Strategic Security and Defence Studies", Defence Advanced Research Institute, Rakovski National Defence College)

10:40 → 12:25 Information Technology: IT III

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

Conveners: Arnis Cirulis (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences), Ivan Simeonov (Vasil Levski National MIlitary University)

10:40 Students’ perceptions of using AI instruments in developing learning to learn skills: An exploratory qualitative study

University training within the Fourth Industrial Revolution should equip students with knowledge and skills to face the challenges of the labour market and, more importantly, successfully navigate their daily personal and professional lives. Given the ongoing development of digital technologies, learning in the 21st century is a significant challenge. Although the use of AI tools in the university classroom raises many controversial issues, it is apparent that AI, as one of the newest digital technologies, is already an inseparable part of students’ lives. The paper aims to understand students’ perceptions of AI and its potential to develop their learning-to-learn skills. The researchers used a voluntary response sampling technique to select the research sample. To collect basic data on students’ perceptions of using AI tools to develop their learning-to-learn skills, the researchers conducted an exploratory qualitative study. The findings indicate that the majority of students agree strongly that AI and AI tools open new opportunities for learning in general and for developing their learning-to-learn skills in particular.

Speaker: Prof. Natalie Aristova (Institute of Pedagogy of NAES of Ukraine)

10:55 AI Dependency in Higher Education: Are Students Becoming Over-Reliant

Artificial intelligence has become part of daily life in universities, for both students and educators. However, despite the fact that we all understand that AI is shaping and changing the education paradigm, the question of how often and for what we use AI remains on the agenda. Yes, AI has made many daily tasks easier; however, are students using AI for tasks they could solve without it? The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which students in higher education are becoming dependent on artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly generative AI systems, in their academic activities. The study seeks to explore how frequent AI usage influences students’ learning behaviors, critical thinking, and academic engagement. This study employs a quantitative research design and a cross-sectional survey to examine students' dependence on AI tools in higher education. A structured questionnaire was developed to collect data on students’ AI usage patterns, dependency levels, and perceptions of its impact on learning. The results of the study show the impact of AI on learning, academic integrity, self-perceived dependency, and risks, as well as how AI has changed the way students study.

Speaker: Julija Mironova (Riga Nordic University)

11:10 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DEEP LEARNING ARCHITECTURES FOR MONOCHROMATIC IMAGE COLORIZATION

Colorizing monochromatic images is crucial for enhancing the informativeness of visual data in modern information technology and computer vision systems. However, automatic colorization poses an inherently ill-posed mathematical challenge due to the multimodal nature of color distributions, where multiple valid color mappings exist for any given grayscale input. This article conducts a comparative analysis of classical algorithms (such as the Welch and Levin methods) against advanced deep learning pipelines. The evaluated architectures range from baseline convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and standalone U-Net models to generative adversarial networks (GANs) and a novel hybrid Fusion GAN that integrates global semantic priors extracted via a ResNet-18 backbone.

All models were trained and rigorously evaluated in the CIE Lab* color space, which effectively separates luminance from chrominance. To ensure a robust evaluation, experiments were conducted using a diverse benchmark of 2,000 images from the COCO dataset. Quality assessment combined traditional metrics like Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity Index

(SSIM) with the Learned Perceptual Image Patch Similarity (LPIPS) metric, prioritizing human-like visual fidelity.

Experimental results yielded counterintuitive insights. While the proposed Fusion GAN successfully surpassed classical methods, baseline CNNs, and standard GANs across most benchmarks, the standalone U-Net architecture secured the highest overall ranking. Specifically, U-Net achieved the top SSIM score of 0.945 (indicating superior structural preservation), the lowest LPIPS of 0.180 (best perceptual quality), and the fastest inference speed, enabling real-time applications. These findings challenge prevailing assumptions about model complexity, demonstrating that simpler encoder-decoder designs can outperform more intricate generative models in quantitative image restoration tasks. Ultimately, this study underscores the critical need for multifaceted evaluation frameworks in deep learning research.

Keywords: computer vision, image colorization, deep learning, GANs, U-Net, CNNs, LPIPS, SSIM, PSNR, COCO dataset

Speaker: Ihor Panasenko

11:25 DCSync attack from an adversary point of view

This paper examines the DCSync attack from an adversarial perspective, focusing on its operational logic, execution techniques and implications for both offensive tradecraft and defensive detection. Rather than treating DCSync solely as a credential access technique, the study situates it within the broader context of Active Directory exploitation and privilege abuse, emphasizing its role in enabling stealthy, high-impact access to domain credential material.

The analysis outlines the fundamental mechanics of DCSync, where an attacker impersonates a domain controller and leverages directory replication protocols to request sensitive account data, including password hashes. Particular attention is given to the prerequisite conditions for successful execution, such as the acquisition or abuse of replication privileges and the methods through which adversaries obtain these privileges during earlier stages of an intrusion. The paper further explores variations in execution, including tooling differences and approaches that influence detection surface and operational footprint.

A core focus of the paper is the relationship between execution methodology and operational security. Different approaches to performing DCSync, ranging from direct invocation via well-known tooling to more controlled, selective replication requests, are analyzed in terms of how they influence visibility, noise generation and attribution risk. The study further explores how the timing, scope, and targeting of replication requests affect the overall stealth of the operation, particularly in environments with mature monitoring of directory services.

The paper also analyzes the concept of "system noise" in the context of DCSync, assessing how the attack blends with legitimate replication traffic and under what conditions anomalies become observable. The findings demonstrate that while DCSync is often perceived as low-noise and difficult to detect, its successful execution remains contingent on careful privilege management and timing, particularly in environments with advanced monitoring and threat hunting capabilities.

Ultimately, the study positions DCSync as a high-value, but not risk-free, technique, whose effectiveness depends on the adversary’s ability to balance stealth, privilege escalation, and operational timing within increasingly instrumented enterprise networks.

Speaker: Dimitar Nikolov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

11:40 Why did threat actors replace PoshC2 with SliverC2? Comparison of two great C2 frameworks.

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the command-and-control (C2) frameworks PoshC2 and SliverC2, examined within the context of evolving adversarial tradecraft, shifting infrastructure paradigms and the increasing maturity of defensive capabilities. While C2 frameworks are traditionally associated with the post-exploitation phase, this study adopts a broader perspective, arguing that framework selection reflects not only tactical requirements but also strategic and operational adaptations to a rapidly changing cyber environment.

The analysis is based on the recent transformations in enterprise infrastructure, notably the transition from predominantly on-premises, Active Directory-centric Windows environments to complex, distributed, and hybrid cloud ecosystems. This evolution, combined with the expanded attack surfaces across critical sectors, has imposed new constraints on adversary operations. In parallel, defensive practices have become increasingly proactive and intelligence-driven, with widespread adoption of EDR, XDR and SIEM solutions. These developments have contributed to a significant reduction in attacker dwell time and increased detection of well-established tools, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).

Within this context, the paper contrasts the architectural and operational characteristics of PoshC2 and SliverC2. PoshC2 is a mature, PowerShell-centric framework optimized for Windows environments, offering extensive post-exploitation functionality but exhibiting increased detectability due to its reliance on heavily monitored technologies. In contrast, SliverC2 represents a modern, Golang-based, cross-platform approach, emphasizing dynamic payload generation, modular extensibility, and advanced communication protocols.

The findings of this paper indicate that the shift from PoshC2 to SliverC2 reflects adaptive adversary behavior driven by environmental complexity and defensive pressure, rather than a simple tool substitution. Contemporary offensive operations are inherently multi-framework, with tooling selected dynamically based on operational requirements and target characteristics.

Speaker: Dimitar Nikolov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

11:55 Computer Science Students’ Perspectives on Incorporating Digital Storytelling for Developing Critical Thinking Skills in English Classroom

In the era of rapid technological advancement, access to digital opportunities makes it possible to prepare students for the jobs of the future and have a positive influence on the development of their future-proof skills, which will be of paramount value. Amid unpredictable changes in the labor market, critical thinking skills are becoming increasingly strategic and enabling labor market entrants to think independently and make informed decisions. Although numerous surveys suggest that digital technologies can enhance students’ engagement and motivation, the current academic literature lacks studies that capture students’ perspectives on developing critical thinking skills through digital storytelling. To address this gap, the study aims to investigate students’ perspectives on incorporating digital storytelling for developing critical thinking skills in the English classroom. To achieve this aim, the researchers developed a questionnaire containing both open- and closed-ended questions and surveyed 397 computer science undergraduate students from two Ukrainian universities. The findings demonstrate that all students surveyed consider digital storytelling an effective way to develop their critical thinking skills, and digital tools are convenient for visualizing and presenting ideas. To draw well-founded conclusions, the researchers use both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. This study is limited to computer science undergraduate students studying English.

Speaker: Prof. Nataliia Aristova (Institute of Pedagogy of NAES of Ukraine)

12:10 IMPROVING TEXT SEARCH MEMORY EFFICIENCY WITH NSW TEXT INDEXING

Modern day full text search relies on a simple yet robust inverted index data structure to find documents matching a text query. However, this approach is limited by the required spelling checker, which often has memory requirements comparable to the index itself. In this work, a novel approach to text indexing is introduced. Based on the navigable small world data structure, it offers a two-in-one solution for search with built-in spelling correction, sacrificing some performance for a substantial memory economy. The proposed index, just like the conventional inverted index, uses separate tokens extracted from a document as the main building blocks. The tokens are organized in a graph, each node representing one token. The nodes list all the document identifiers for the documents where the token is found. The edges of the graph connect tokens that are similar in terms of edit distance. The proposed approach utilizes an arbitrary ranking function to find relevant documents, the state-of-the-art BM25 ranking function is recommended as a reasonable default. The function values are weighed to take the edit distance into account. The ability to process misspelled words allows avoiding maintaining a separate structure for spelling correction while still generating search results which account for possible misspellings in the query phrase. The search time losses are attributed to the neighbor exploration while traversing the navigable small world data structure, and thus can be mitigated by configuring the data structure to maintain a fairly low number of connections. Such a configuration also provides a hard limit to the number of edits allowed in a single query term. The paper discusses in detail the ways of picking the optimal parameters for the algorithm, as well as the limitations of the proposed approach.

Keywords: full text search, search, navigable small world, memory efficiency, text ranking, spelling correction.

Speaker: Dmytro Dashenkov

12:30 → 13:30 Coffee break

13:30 → 16:00 Poster session: Poster session IV

Conveners: Desislava Petrova, Yanitsa Boyanova

13:30 Vulnerability Assessment of Wild Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast using Rapid GIS-Based Model

The Bulgarian Black Sea Coast is characterised by specific biological diversity and is an extremely important region for the conservation of biological diversity on the Balkan Peninsula and Europe. Wild medicinal and aromatic plants represent both a vital ecological asset and a valuable Bulgarian export. Despite an established regulatory framework, the unregulated overharvesting of medicinal plants persists, characterised by the collection of prohibited species and quotas exceeding. These practices, compounded by adverse anthropogenic pressures, exert a cumulative negative impact on natural habitats resulting in loss of localities and depletion of stocks, as well as significant long-term economic losses. Consequently, the Bulgarian strategy for the sustainable use of biological resources is based on rigorous assessment and monitoring of the distribution, abundance, and population dynamics of these wild species. Constantly changing demand and market trends for quantities and types of medicinal plants, as well as changing negative anthropogenic factors, requires deploying dynamic models for rapid vulnerability assessment. The aim of the present study is to assess the vulnerability of wild medicinal and aromatic plants and their localities along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast using a Rapid Model for Vulnerability Assessment of Medicinal Plants (RMVAMP). This model utilizes objective criteria and weighted values rather than subjective expert interpretation. It surpasses traditional rapid methods by assessing more factors that directly affect target species. By incorporating these weighted datasets into a GIS framework, natural localities and habitats along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast were classified and mapped via a colour-coded scale. This spatial analysis effectively identifies high-vulnerable species and areas where medicinal plant harvesting requires stricter regulation.

Speaker: Stoyan Vergiev (Technical University of Varna)

13:33 Use of mobile autonomous systems to control pollution of continental water bodies

Pollution of continental water resources has emerged as one of the most significant environmental problems in recent decades. This affects both the natural ecosystems inhabiting water areas and the quality of life of the population. The unregulated disposal of large amounts of plastic, construction and household waste into rivers, lakes and adjacent territories leads to significant consequences - degradation of biodiversity, disruption of natural hydrological processes, as well as crises such as floods, pollution of groundwater and drinking water. This study examines the possibilities of applying autonomous technical means - both aerial (drones) and floating (robotic platforms) - for monitoring and control of pollution. These technologies offer a number of advantages: effective monitoring of large areas with minimal resources, the possibility of early detection of unregulated landfills, as well as rapid response to risky situations.

Speaker: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

13:36 Applying a Heuristic Approach to Time Optimization in a Grid Schedule

With the development of information technology, the process of project management in different areas of the economy has changed. Very often, new approaches use combinations of familiar, established project management methods to respond to .
This article examines an approach to project management using a combination of the PERT method and evolutionary algorithms. The goal is to improve the estimate of the possible time required to complete the project. With the PERT method, you can find the critical path of the project, with all critical activities. pessimistic, most likely and optimistic. The project is represented as an acyclic graph in which the tasks are placed in the nodes, and the edges give the connections between them. Each task is assessed with the three PERT assessments . The result of applying the combination of the two methods is a reduction in the length of the critical path, i.e. the time to complete the project.

Speaker: Irena Petrova (Todor Kableshkov University of Transport, Sofia, Bulgaria)

13:39 RESEARCH ON THE MACRO ELEMENTS OF THE MARKETING ENVIRONMENT OF COMPANIES BY INDUSTRY

Companies operate in the conditions of environmental factors, some of which do not directly affect their activities, but through indirect influence. The subject of the development are the macro factors of the companies' environment, and the object is the business in the Veliko Tarnovo region. The main goal is to present the reactions to changes in the macro factors of the environment and how this can affect the company's competitiveness. The research objective is to compare the temporal influences of individual factors on company activity. The main research method is comparative analysis. The main result of the study is the identification of the specifics of influences in different industries.

Speaker: Prof. Tsanko Stefanov (St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo)

13:42 INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOLUTIONS IN MENTAL HEALTHCARE

The current paper explores the transformative role of the digital tools and Artificial Intelligence in the field of mental healthcare. As global demand for psychological support outpaces the availability of human specialists, digital and AI-driven solutions offer a scalable bridge to fill this gap. The study examines the transition from traditional diagnostic methods to data-driven, predictive models. The research utilizes a comparative analysis of leading AI therapeutic platforms and evaluates the technical foundations of digital phenotyping and Natural Language Processing. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the legal implications of the European Union's AI Act on high-risk medical algorithms.

Keywords: mental health, digitalization, AI, digital phenotyping

Speaker: Vihra Dimitrova (University of Telecommunications and Post)

13:45 RESEARCH ON THE EFFECTS OF SPECIFIC RADIONUCLIDES ON HEALTH

Radionuclides affect human health and living organisms through external and internal exposure. This causes acute effects at high doses and an increased risk of cancer and genetic damage at long-term low-level exposure. Radionuclides generally affect health, toxicology and public health through chemical and radiation effects - internal uptake (ingestion/inhalation) of specific isotopes such as I-131, Cs-137 and Sr-90 leads to local accumulation in critical organs and an increased risk of cancer and functional disorders. The main routes of entry of hazardous radionuclides into the human body are through air, water, food and injured surfaces. It is very important to conduct radiation reconnaissance of the isotopes distributed in the environment and their energy state. Public health protection responds to the presence or change in the composition of radionuclides through monitoring, dietary restrictions and protective measures (evacuation, iodine prophylaxis). Radionuclides have a combined effect, causing on the one hand a radiation component (ionizing damage to DNA) and on the other hand a chemical/toxicological component (for example, heavy metals such as uranium have nephrotoxicity).

Speaker: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

13:48 Reduction of the specific activity of radioactively contaminated soil using the high-pressure hydro-cleaning method

Radionuclides are mainly bound within soil layers and exist in the Earth’s crust as mineral-like substances that are resistant to heat and electrical воздействия and can split into thin layers, making them difficult to wash out easily. Therefore, in order to extract radionuclides from radiation-contaminated soil layers and reduce their specific activity, it is necessary to separate them using various processing methods. Currently, conventional methods developed for treating radiation-contaminated soils include extraction using acids, alkalis, or other chemical reagents. These treatment methods require large amounts of chemical reagents, making them economically inefficient and difficult to apply to large volumes of contaminated soil.

Speaker: Prof. Marufjan Musaev (Tashkent State Technical University)

13:51 COMPUTER VISION CAPABILITIES FOR ORTHOPHOTOGRAMMETRY AND 3D TERRAIN MODELING

Orthophotogrammetry is a specialized branch of photogrammetry aimed at creating accurate, scaled orthophotographs (or orthomosaics). This paper investigates the theoretical and practical aspects of computer vision algorithms in the creation of three-dimensional models of objects and terrains in order to generate reliable reconstruction. The article discusses the capabilities of the WebODM (Web OpenDroneMap) product for application in field orthophotogrammetry and the creation of high-precision 3D models. The workflow for creating a three-dimensional model from unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery and the creation of digital elevation models (DEM/DSM), dense point clouds and textured three-dimensional models is given. A quantitative accuracy assessment was performed using the root mean square error (RMSE) of the final geospatial products, to validate their suitable relative geometric accuracy in monitoring and safety in the urban environment.

Speaker: Georgi Komitov (Agricultural University - Plovdiv)

13:54 NON-DESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION OF ION-NITRIDED AND CARBONITRIDED LAYERS ON BH11 AND D2 TOOL STEELS: EDDY CURRENT TESTING AND BARKHAUSEN NOISE METHODS

This paper systematises the destructive reference characteristics of ion-nitrided and carbonitrided layers on BH11 (4CrSMoVSi, VS4659) and D2 (Cr12MoV) tool steels produced in glow-discharge plasma at 550 °C and ∼400 Pa, and investigates their suitability for calibrating and validating non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. Two principal NDT techniques are examined—eddy current testing (ECT) and the Barkhausen noise method (BNM)—whose complementary depth sensitivity enables simultaneous estimation of effective case depth (δ, 55–145 µm) and surface hardness (1150–1300 HV₀.₁). Concrete calibration procedures, an integrated inline station concept, and a validation strategy including statistical process control (SPC) are proposed. Multi-frequency ECT (50–200 kHz) proves most sensitive to total diffusion-zone depth, while BNM (50–200 Hz magnetisation) captures near-surface hardness changes. A combined data-fusion model reduces MAE in δ estimation to ±10–15 µm and provides reliable OSZ classification (accuracy > 92 %).

Speaker: Mr Viktor Georgiev

14:00 Human Capital Development in Wartime and Post-War Periods Using Artificial Intelligence

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformation of human capital development in Ukraine during wartime and the post-war period, with a particular focus on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. It is substantiated that wartime challenges, including demographic losses, forced migration, declining employment, and disruption of educational systems, significantly affect the qualitative characteristics of human capital. At the same time, crisis conditions foster the emergence of new competencies, such as digital literacy, adaptability, critical thinking, and the ability for rapid learning.
The study identifies artificial intelligence as a key instrument for ensuring the continuity of education, improving its quality, and supporting human capital development under conditions of instability. The implementation of AI contributes to the personalization of learning, automation of assessment, and the development of adaptive educational environments. Particular attention is given to the use of text-based AI models, including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot, which are actively applied for content generation, academic writing support, tutoring, and skill development. These tools enhance access to knowledge, support individualized learning trajectories, and facilitate continuous professional development.
In addition, AI-powered platforms such as Coursera, Duolingo, and adaptive learning systems are analyzed as effective instruments for reskilling and upskilling the workforce. The integration of such tools enables the development of flexible competencies aligned with labor market demands.
The article also examines approaches to integrating formal, non-formal, and informal education in teacher training within the context of post-war recovery. Practice-oriented learning models supported by AI are shown to be effective for designing personalized learning pathways, monitoring outcomes, and supporting the psycho-emotional well-being of learners.
The main directions for modernizing educational programs in pedagogical universities are outlined, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, ethical awareness, and digital competence. It is concluded that AI-driven tools and models play a crucial role in restoring and enhancing human capital, ensuring economic resilience and sustainable development in the post-war period.
Keywords:
human capital; artificial intelligence; wartime economy; post-war recovery; digital transformation; education systems; teacher training; adaptive learning; lifelong learning; AI tools; digital competencies

Speaker: Oksana Voloshyna (Vinnytsia Mykhailo Kotsiubynskyi State Pedagogical University)

14:03 Opportunity to increase the competitiveness of the industrial enterprise and transition to Industry 4.0 through the implementation of business projects from the European Structural and Investment Funds

The subject of the article is the theoretical and methodological aspects of business project management as a proven effective tool used by companies from the industrial sector to respond to the dynamic internal environment. The report analyzes the principles and approaches to business project management and the construction of effective project teams, combining management knowledge and specialized expertise. Some arguments are given, emphasizing the importance of business project management for increasing the competitiveness of the industrial enterprise and the transition to Industry 4.0. In modern conditions, the activities of industrial enterprises are strongly influenced by the rapidly developing information and communication technologies, the high level of uncertainty in the external environment, the behavior of competitors and the globalization of markets. The resulting innovation processes at the macro level are wide open, global, interdisciplinary and encompass a wide range of participants, which necessitates the implementation of project-oriented models of management of innovative activities in industrial enterprises. In response to the challenges of the time, companies are actively seeking opportunities to develop their innovative potential, increase their competitiveness and technological modernization. The implementation of European projects can significantly accelerate the transition of the enterprise to the concept of Industry 4.0 by providing access to modern technologies, innovative practices and strategic support.

Speaker: Siyka Demirova

14:06 Integrated risk assessment model for cyber threats to critical infrastructure

Critical infrastructure has become increasingly vulnerable to complex cyber threats characteristic of the contemporary hybrid security environment. The convergence of digital attacks, information operations, and potential physical disruptions necessitates integrated risk assessment approaches that capture both technological and operational dimensions of infrastructure systems. This study presents an integrated risk assessment model for cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, developed through the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques and expert transport system analysis, with a specific focus on railway infrastructure as a key component of national security.
The proposed model consists of three complementary components: (1) an AI based module for anomaly detection and vulnerability identification within information and control systems; (2) probabilistic modelling of cyberattack and hybrid threat scenarios, enabling the estimation of likelihood and impact across different threat vectors; and (3) a transport logistics assessment of operational resilience, analysing the effects of potential disruptions on railway system performance, capacity, safety, and service continuity.
Simulation results demonstrate that the integrated approach provides higher accuracy in risk prediction, earlier detection of critical deviations, and more effective planning of protective measures. The model enables the identification of the most vulnerable infrastructure elements and supports the development of adaptive response strategies. The study contributes to the advancement of cybersecurity methodologies in the transport sector and offers practical recommendations for enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure under hybrid threat conditions.

Speaker: Kostadin Trifonov (University of Transport Todor Kableshkov , Faculty of Transport Management, Department of Technology, Organization and Management of Transport,)

14:09 ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICABILITY OF INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORKS AND STANDARDS FOR CYBERSECURITY AS A BASIS FOR BUILDING A CLASSIFICATION MODEL IN THE “SECURITY AND DEFENCE” SECTOR

The report presents an analysis of leading international cybersecurity standards and frameworks to assess their applicability in building a cyber-incident response model at the political, strategic, operational and tactical levels. The emphasis is on examining the vertical and horizontal connections between the individual levels and standards, as well as on identifying the opportunities and limitations of the standards/frameworks.

Speaker: Dr Atanas Nikolov

14:12 Generalized Net Model of the Disaster Protection Assessment Process Using Artificial Intelligence

The article presents an original generalized net model (GN-model) for using artificial intelligence in assessing the protection of the population and infrastructure in disasters. It includes assessments of basic components such as population, infrastructure, personnel and procedures using intuitionistic fuzzy logic. A simulation of the GN-model was conducted in the GN IDE simulation environment and some of the results obtained are presented. Possible applications of the model for improving the procedures for protecting the population and infrastructure in disasters and accidents are described.

Speaker: Mr Svilen Neykov

14:15 Water Resources Exploitation in Bulgaria: A Water Security Perspective

Abstract— This study examines the exploitation of water resources in Bulgaria within the framework of water security, with particular emphasis on the structural transformation of water supply systems and the increasing strategic role of groundwater. The analysis is based on River Basin Management Plans (2022–2027), national statistical data, and a comprehensive assessment of water abstraction dynamics across the four river basin districts for the period 2010–2024. The results reveal a clear shift from surface water dominance towards a groundwater-driven supply model, characterized by a decline in surface water abstraction from 488.3 million m³ in 2010 to 386.1 million m³ in 2024, and a relatively stable but increasingly dominant role of groundwater, which accounts for over 50% of public water supply and provides between 65% and 70% of drinking water at national level. The findings demonstrate that, despite the existence of significant reservoir infrastructure, the long-term stability and resilience of water supply in Bulgaria are predominantly sustained by groundwater resources, which function as a buffering and stabilizing component of the system.
Keywords— water resources, water security, water use, groundwater, water management

Speaker: Desislava Dimitrova (Technical University of Varna, Bulgaria)

14:18 Multifactorial study of the influence of an anomegator on oil on the change in the tribotechnical parameters of the friction pair

Abstract: The addition of an anomegator to the oil directly affects the change in the tribotechnical parameters of the friction pair by changing its operating environment.
The article presents a multivariate study of the influence of the addition of an anomega to the lubricating medium on the change in the tribotechnical parameters of a friction pair. The main objective is to evaluate the effect of the additive on friction and wear processes under different operating conditions, expressed by the change in roughness.
The main factors influencing the operation of friction surfaces are considered, such as load, sliding speed, temperature and concentration of the anomega in the oil. The experimental methodology is described, including laboratory tests using a specific tribological bench and measuring the roughness parameter.
The article analyzes the results obtained by statistical methods for multivariate analysis, and it is found that the addition of an anomega has a significant impact on improving lubrication performance and reducing wear under certain operating modes. The optimal values of the studied factors and the possibilities for practical application of the results are discussed.
Keywords: anamegator, multivariate analysis, roughness, experiment planning.

Speakers: Mr Evgeni Kehayov (Agricultural University - Plovdiv), Georgi Komitov (Agricultural University - Plovdiv)

14:21 Organizing and conducting underwater search and rescue operations for victims

A review of modern methods for organizing and conducting rescue operations in water bodies is made. The methods are improved using artificial intelligence (AI) to support rescue divers in underwater operations for searching and rescuing victims in accidents. Modern technologies for processing data obtained from sonar systems, video streams and sensor information are considered. Machine learning algorithms are also presented to improve the accuracy of detecting underwater objects in order to reduce the time required for detecting and extracting victims. It has been proven that the use of AI improves the efficiency of operations, reduces risks to the life and health of divers and shortens the search time.

Speaker: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

14:24 Expectations and opportunities for AI-enabled systems application in the context of military communications and cybersecurity

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping military operations and communication systems, introducing both opportunities and challenges. This article explores the intersection of AI and military communications, emphasising current trends, requirements, and potential applications. It discusses how communication disruptions can impact military operations and suggests AI-driven solutions to enhance situational awareness and improve real-time response capabilities. The article also examines conceptual examples of AI-enabled military communication systems, demonstrating their potential to optimise network performance, prioritise data transmission, and strengthen cybersecurity.

Speaker: Emil Ivanov

14:27 Environmental security and marine ecosystem protection: addressing regulatory ambiguities in Bulgaria

This report focuses on mechanisms to ensure environmental security and in particular protection of the marine environment from pollution, including the impact from incidents, disasters, accidents and other emergency situations. The presented analysis at the complex of measures and activities implemented in Bulgaria for prevention and response to pollution of the marine environment reveals a number of gaps both in regulatory and organizational aspects. It has been demonstrated that an objective necessity to expanded the scope of mechanisms for ensuring environmental security in coastal waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Bulgaria. Suggestions creating for the development of the environmental security system are proposed which would ensure regulatory compliance as well as real improvement in the effectiveness for the protection of the Black Sea against pollution.

Keywords: environmental security, marine environment, preparedness, risk management, marine pollution, Black Sea.

Speaker: Miroslava Robinson (Technical University of Varna)

14:30 DESIGN AND SCENARIO DEVELOPMENT OF A MARITIME CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SIMULATION PLATFORM

This paper presents the design and scenario development of a simulation platform for maritime cybersecurity training. In response to the increasing digitalization of shipboard systems and the growing exposure to cyber threats, the platform provides a web-based environment that simulates a ship bridge and enables hands-on training in cyber incident response. The system supports real-time interaction with key onboard systems, allowing users to observe and respond to unusual behavior under simulated attack conditions. The platform includes three cyber-physical scenarios: GPS spoofing, AIS data injection, and engine control malware. The presented solution is designed to respond to specific training needs - the detection of cyber-physical attacks in conditions that closely simulate real-life scenarios. It is suitable for integration into academic and professional maritime training, enhancing traditional bridge simulators by addressing specific cybersecurity challenges in a controlled and accessible environment.

Keywords: maritime cybersecurity, simulation-based training, ship bridge simulation

Speakers: Ekaterina Dyankova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy), Dilyana Dimitrova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy), Evgeni Andreev (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

14:33 Analysis of Braking Deceleration and the Efficiency of Automotive Braking Systems Using MATLAB

This study presents a methodology for analyzing vehicle braking deceleration and the efficiency of braking systems. Using measured skid marks and the physical characteristics of the road surface, the actual deceleration and the efficiency coefficient are determined. MATLAB-based interactive and 3D visualizations enable dynamic evaluation across different speeds and braking distances. The proposed method is applicable to road traffic accident investigation, road safety assessment, and engineering optimization of braking systems under various road conditions.

Speaker: Yuliyan Petrov

14:36 Ground operational picture improvement through direct georeferencing from an unmanned aerial system

This paper presents an approach to improving the ground operational picture by applying direct georeferencing techniques from an unmanned aerial system (UAS). The study addresses the growing need for rapid and accurate target localization within time-critical operational environments, where minimizing latency and maximizing spatial accuracy are essential.
The proposed methodology leverages onboard GNSS/INS data and calibrated imaging sensors to assist in determining the geospatial coordinates of observed objects without reliance on ground control points. A transformation model based on intrinsic and extrinsic camera parameters is implemented to ensure precise mapping between image space and object space.
The integration of direct georeferencing into the target management cycle significantly reduces processing time compared to conventional indirect methods. Experimental results indicate improved time performance and, consequently, enhanced operational efficiency, particularly in dynamic and data-intensive scenarios such as surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
The proposed approach supports near real-time performance and provides a scalable solution for advanced UAS-based targeting systems.

Speaker: Venelin Rashkov (Communication and Information Systems Directorate, Ministry of Defence)

14:39 Integrating Bulgarian National Identity into Sustainable Fashion Design through Digital Technologies

This study examines the integration of Bulgarian national identity into sustainable fashion design through the application of digital technologies. The research focuses on the use of CAD systems and digital textile design tools for the transformation and adaptation of traditional Bulgarian motifs into contemporary garment design. Emphasis is placed on preserving the cultural, symbolic, and aesthetic value of traditional elements while aligning them with the principles of sustainability. A design approach is proposed that incorporates digitalization of traditional patterns, virtual prototyping, and machine embroidery techniques to enable efficient and resource-conscious production. The study analyzes the role of digital workflows in reducing material waste, optimizing production processes, and improving design accuracy. Additionally, the use of environmentally friendly textile materials is considered as part of the sustainable design strategy. The results highlight the potential of digital technologies to support the preservation and reinterpretation of cultural heritage within modern fashion systems. The integration of national identity and sustainability principles contributes to the development of innovative, environmentally responsible, and culturally meaningful fashion products.

Speaker: Mrs Desislava Ivanova (Technical University of Sofia)

14:42 METHODS FOR DATA ARHIVING AND RECOVERY USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

In the face of digital renewal, data is one of the most valuable stockpiles for any organization. They not only facilitate operational activity, but also play an important role in strategic decision-making. This data can include everything from clinical trials and client databases, to reports and internal communications. Through data processing, companies can identify weak links in their operations and offer solutions to improve them.

Incorporating artificial intelligence into data archiving processes represents a big step in information management. Methods using artificial intelligence are automated, intelligently indexed, and offer search, which significantly increases the efficiency and accuracy of archival systems.

The report presents methods that compare the evolution and improvement of data archiving and recovery processes through artificial intelligence, while addressing potential challenges and limitations. An assessment of the risk of data loss in artificial intelligence systems was made using the Weibull model to predict failures. A Bayesian distribution flowchart has been developed, demonstrating the efficiency of a data backup system using implemented AI.

Speaker: Elena Shtereva

14:45 GENERALIZED NET MODEL OF THE E-LEARNING PROCESS

The paper presents a orginal model of the e-learning process, developed using the Generalized Net (GN) apparatus. The main stages in digital education are modeled - from access to learning resources in electronic platforms to ongoing control and final assessment. Through the GN-specific transitions, the logical connections and information flows between learners, teachers and learning management systems (LMS) are described. The model allows tracking individual progress and offers a theoretical basis for optimizing software architectures in the modern educational environment.

Speaker: Ms Daniela Mirtcheva-Ivanova

14:48 RESEARCH ON THE MICROELEMENTS OF THE MARKETING ENVIRONMENT OF ENTERPRISES FROM DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES

Enterprises operate within an environment that directly influences their activities. Different industries react specifically to individual elements of this environment. The main purpose of the research is to demonstrate the company's reactions to the stimuli from the environment, which has a direct impact on the activity. The subject of the research are the microelements of the marketing environment, and the object are companies from different industries in Veliko Tarnovo region.

Speaker: Prof. Tsanko Stefanov (St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo)

14:51 Digital Transformation of the Bulgarian Rose in Sustainable Fashion Design through Specialized Machine Embroidery Software

This study examines the process of digital transformation of the traditional motif of the Bulgarian oil-bearing rose (Rosa damascena) within the context of sustainable fashion design through the use of specialized embroidery software. The research explores the adaptation of natural forms into a digital environment by combining artistic stylization and technological implementation. A methodology is proposed, involving the creation of an initial ornament using cross-stitch techniques in Pattern Maker, followed by digitization and optimization of the embroidery design in Artistic Digitizer. The final design is executed through machine embroidery on textile products. The results demonstrate that the digital approach enables an effective integration of cultural heritage and modern technologies, while contributing to sustainable fashion practices through resource optimization and increased product durability.

Speaker: Mr Nikolai Tranchev (Technical University of Sofia)

14:54 Improving disaster, accident, emergency and crisis management systems in Bulgaria

The modern New World – the World of the 21st century – has turned out to be a world existing in constant crises and conflicts of the most diverse nature and scope both at the local, regional and global levels. Crisis situations are sometimes caused by man, but sometimes they are of a natural or mixed nature. In this context, serious issues facing every government and community – be they local, state, regional or supranational – are issues related to the prediction, timely identification and rapid adequate response to such crisis situations.
In this sense, the issue of the state of disaster, accident, emergency and crisis management systems, as well as the possibilities for their improvement, is of particular importance not only for Bulgaria as a sovereign state, but also in a regional, union and global aspect. In this line of thought, it is good to ask the question and analyze the relationship and interaction of disaster, accident, emergency and crisis management systems with the country's national security system.

Keywords: New World, globalization, management, crises, security.

Speaker: Dr Viara Zhekova (Bulgalian)

14:57 Secure Cross-Border Innovation Clusters in Industry 4.0: A Model and Empirical Study of the Burgas–Edirne Region

This study investigates the development of secure cross-border innovation clusters within the context of Industry 4.0, focusing on the Burgas–Edirne region. The main objective is to develop and empirically demonstrate a conceptual and analytical model for evaluating the interrelationship between technological development, cybersecurity, trust, and entrepreneurial activity within innovation ecosystems.
The proposed framework integrates four core dimensions—technology level, security, trust, and entrepreneurship—and enables quantitative assessment through a composite Secure Innovation Cluster (SIC) index. The research methodology combines comparative regional analysis with a simulation-based empirical approach using realistic indicators for Bulgaria and Türkiye.
The findings indicate that although both regions demonstrate comparable innovation potential, significant disparities exist in cybersecurity maturity and trust levels, which directly affect the efficiency of cross-border collaboration. The study highlights cybersecurity as a critical enabler of sustainable technological entrepreneurship and the development of resilient innovation clusters in Industry 4.0 environments.

Speaker: Sibel Ahmedova (Technical University of Varna)

15:00 HYBRID PLASMA–SOL-GEL TECHNOLOGIES FOR FLAME RETARDANCY AND NIR CAMOUFLAGE OF MILITARY TEXTILES: REVIEW

This review examines hybrid technologies combining dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment and sol-gel nanocomposite coatings to improve the performance of military textiles. The paper examines cotton/polyester (CO/PES) blended fabrics that exhibit good physicomechanical and comfort properties but limited thermal resistance. The reviewed literature identifies DBD plasma as an effective surface activation method that improves textile adhesion and chemical reactivity through the formation of active functional groups. The sol-gel silica matrix serves as a stable carrier for halogen-free phosphorus-nitrogen refractory systems and functional additives, contributing to improved limiting oxygen index (LOI) values and increased coating wash durability. In addition to fire protection, the reviewed studies demonstrate the potential for controlling spectral reflectance in the near-infrared (NIR) region by incorporating selected pigments, carbon-based materials, and metal oxide additives into the hybrid coating system. Such modifications can reduce the optical detectability of military textiles while maintaining the flexibility and comfort of the fabric. Based on the reviewed studies, the paper proposes a conceptual technological model for multifunctional military textiles with controlled spectral properties and improved thermomechanical performance. The review also outlines key performance indicators and future experimental directions for validating the proposed hybrid plasma-sol-gel concept on CO/PES military fabrics.

Speaker: Ms Rumyana Milyovska (Bulgaria)

15:03 Machinability of short rotary parts made of improveable steels with robotic feeding

Heat-treated steels (hardened with subsequent high-temperature tempering) are widely used in the manufacture of critical parts subjected to elastic and impact loads. The publication examines their machinability when machining on CNC lathes with robotic feed. The average roughness of the machined surfaces – Ra – was used as a criterion for their machinability. Based on the experimental results, regression models were developed and optimization of the technological process was performed.

Speaker: Beata Vlahova

15:06 Analysis of the Human Body Positioning in Disaster Remediation

The paper presents an approach to detection, classification
and decision making for disaster relief scenarios, based on imaging
data, pose estimations, depth perception and scene understanding, utilizing AI while performing on low power hardware.

Speaker: Svilen Neykov

15:09 Mathematical Modeling of Safe Vehicle–Pedestrian Distance with Interactive Visualization

This paper proposes a mathematical framework for modeling the safe distance between a vehicle and a pedestrian, addressing a critical aspect of road safety and collision avoidance. The model is derived from kinematic principles and incorporates key parameters, including vehicle speed, pedestrian speed, and pedestrian displacement prior to potential conflict.A closed-form analytical expression for the safe distance is established, revealing a direct proportional relationship with vehicle velocity and pedestrian motion characteristics. The model is further extended to account for spatial deviations and realistic movement scenarios, enhancing its applicability in complex traffic environments.
To facilitate analysis and interpretation, an interactive MATLAB-based simulation tool is developed, enabling real-time parameter variation and dynamic visualization of vehicle–pedestrian interactions. The simulation supports comprehensive numerical experimentation under diverse conditions, including limited visibility and varying motion dynamics.
The proposed approach provides a robust analytical and computational tool for traffic accident reconstruction, safety assessment, and the design of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), contributing to improved pedestrian protection and risk mitigation.

Speaker: Yuliyan Petrov

15:12 Radiogenic heat production in the Earth’s crust of Bulgaria: The dominant role of the Rhodope Massif

This report evaluates the radiogenic heat production (A) within the continental crust of Bulgaria, emphasizing the dominant role of the Rhodope Massif. The generation of thermal energy through the radioactive decay of uranium (U), thorium (Th), and potassium (K) is a primary component of the Earth's heat flow.
The analysis first establishes a baseline for Bulgaria by assessing the average heat production levels across the main lithological units, utilizing previously published data on their radioactive element content. Subsequently, the study focuses on the Rhodope Massif, identified as the country's most significant heat-generating region due to radiogenic values that substantially exceed the national average.
Comparative results indicate that this elevated radiogenic heat is a major driver of regional geothermal activity and the high density of thermal springs. These findings provide essential data for crustal thermal modeling and the assessment of deep geothermal energy potential in Southern Bulgaria.

Speaker: Yanitsa Boyanova

15:15 ASSESSMENT OF THE DIGITAL MATURITY OF ESG REPORTING IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITALIZATION

This study examines the digitization of ESG reporting through the lens of its digital maturity. The Digital ESG Reporting Maturity Index (DERMI) was developed for the quantitative assessment of the level of digitalization of ESG reporting. It is based on a set of measurable indicators combined into an index that covers five dimensions: format and machine readability, structuring according to the ESRS, degree of quantitative disclosure, presence of targets, and mechanisms for traceability and external assurance. The proposed index was tested on a sample of ESG reports to determine levels of digital maturity. The results indicate a moderate level of digital maturity, with significant variability among individual observations. It is found that digitalization is not limited to the implementation of technological solutions but is linked to the degree of data structuring, quantitative disclosure, and the presence of control and external assurance mechanisms.

Speaker: Kiril Luchkov (Technical University of Sofia)

15:18 Energy security as an element of national security

Bulgaria annually consumes about 50 Terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity. Production varies within the same limits. These are the values over the past 5 years. 30-40 years ago, production and consumption were significantly higher, for which there is a historical explanation. In the last century, production and export of electricity were significantly higher, with production significantly exceeding consumption. Bulgaria supplied European Turkey, including Istanbul and Northern Greece. The balance was entirely positive. In the 21st century, electricity production has decreased significantly and since last year a trend for a negative balance of electricity has been observed, i.e. imports exceed exports. By disrupting the balance between production and consumption, Bulgaria becomes dependent on external suppliers and this threatens the country's national security.

Speaker: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)

13:30 → 16:00 Defence and Security Technology: DS IV

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1118: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/395454791825767?p=Ro1nKtRb4wLo0HQQ6h

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session in room 1208: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/376532165035473?p=9xBJW1k58qFFwidM2b

Conveners: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria), Plamen Atanasov ("Vasil Levski" National Military University)

13:30 CHALLENGES AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE EDUCATION IN THE GENDER PERSPECTIVES IN SECURITY AND DEFENSE’S COMMON MODULE

Military academies and universities in Europe are looking for ways to harmonize military education and training of future officers to increase interoperability of the EU member states’ armies. The rich history of the “European Initiative of Exchange of Young Officers, inspired by Erasmus+” is a proof of successful initiatives, as it offers attractive international training, with one of the modules offering training on understanding and implementing gender equality policies in the military environment. This report includes an analysis of the learning content and the results of the feedback from the trainees in the last two editions of the Common Module, organized by the military academies of Italy and Greece.

Speaker: Nevena Atanasova-Krasteva (Vasil Levski National Military University)

13:45 Electromagnetic protection using software-defined radio

The main elements of electromagnetic protection (EP) such as ensuring electromagnetic compatibility measures, communication equipment protection measures, electromagnetic radiation management, preventive countermeasures against enemy radio intelligence have been examined. A definition, basic terms and the architecture of software-defined radio (SDR) have been given. A concept for adding electromagnetic protection functions to the structure of a communication system, built on the SDR platform, has been proposed

Speaker: Mr Sevdalin Spassov (Bulgarian Defence Institute "Prof. Tsvetan Lazarov")

14:00 Fiscal Security and Non-Compliant Tax Conduct

Although the concept of national security has been extensively examined in scholarly literature, the notion of fiscal security has received comparatively limited academic attention. Fiscal security can be understood as a state of budgetary stability in which public financial interests are adequately safeguarded. Its core function is to ensure the availability of financial resources necessary for the stable and effective functioning of the state, and it represents a fundamental precondition for the effective implementation of public policies and the realization of governmental objectives. From this perspective, the level of fiscal security directly affects the overall level of national security, underscoring the need for a thorough analysis of the concept.
Non-Compliant Tax Conduct represents a particularly serious threat to fiscal interests and has increasingly become a focus of attention of the international community. Practices that circumvent and violate tax laws undermine the financial foundations of both the national security system and the security framework of the European Union Member States. In addition to causing substantial losses to public budgets, such practices distort market competition, violate the interests of bona fide economic actors and the sustainable economic growth more broadly, and weaken public trust in the legitimacy of taxation and public governance. Developing a coherent theoretical framework for non-compliant tax conduct, including a clear distinction among categories and an analysis of their implications for national security, may improve legislative and law enforcement practices and strengthen interinstitutional cooperation.

Speaker: Elina Marinova (University of Ruse, BULGARIA)

14:15 INTERNAL FIRE HYDRANTS IN RESIDENTIAL AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS AS A FIRE-RISK MITIGATION MEASURE

Internal fire hydrants (IFHs) are an active measure for initial fire suppression and for supporting firefighting operations by providing immediately accessible water within the building. This paper integrates a regulatory analysis, processing of statistics for 43,127 registered fires in public and residential buildings during 2015-2025, an analysis of 66 registered fires in 2015-2024 in which an IFH was used, data from thematic inspections of 2,203 high-rise residential buildings, and a parameterized event tree for evaluating the weighted contribution of IFHs to fire-risk reduction. The analysis shows that the current regulatory framework in Bulgaria imposes measurable requirements for coverage, flow rate, pressure, minimum water-supply duration, and maintenance. Of the 66 incidents analyzed, 63 (95.5%) involved an IFH reported as operational, yet inspections of the building stock reveal a widespread presence of latent deficiencies - missing equipment, lack of maintenance, and missing signage. This confirms that the actual risk-reduction effect of IFHs depends simultaneously on their regulatory provision, technical readiness, and the human factor. Primary numerical results from the questionnaire surveys and experiments are not available in the uploaded files; therefore, the paper shows how these data enter the model without introducing unsupported values.

Speaker: Svilena Arabadzhieva

14:30 Condition-Based and Risk-Oriented Lifecycle Safety Management of Conventional Ammunition Using Non-Destructive Diagnostic Data

The safe lifecycle management of conventional ammunition is a continuing challenge for defense organizations due to aging effects, variable storage conditions, incomplete historical records, and the need to maintain both operational readiness and safety assurance. In this context, non-destructive diagnostic data can provide a practical basis for more transparent and evidence-based lifecycle decisions. This paper presents a condition-based and risk-oriented approach for lifecycle safety management of conventional ammunition using non-destructive diagnostic data as the primary source of technical evidence. The proposed concept integrates condition monitoring, interpretation of degradation-related indicators, and structured risk evaluation into a unified decision-support logic applicable across storage, inspection, handling, maintenance, and disposal planning stages.

The approach is designed to support the identification of early warning signs associated with physical degradation, to reduce uncertainty in technical assessment, and to improve prioritization of safety-related actions under limited inspection resources. Diagnostic observations are translated into condition indicators and further mapped to risk-informed management categories that can support continued storage, intensified surveillance, handling restrictions, maintenance planning, or withdrawal from service. Particular attention is given to the consistency, traceability, and practical deployability of the proposed assessment workflow in real stockpile management environments.

The main contribution of the paper is the formulation of a transferable framework that connects non-destructive technical evidence with lifecycle safety decisions in a structured and auditable manner. The proposed approach does not rely on invasive examination procedures and is therefore suitable for applications where safety constraints, resource limitations, and operational continuity must be considered simultaneously. The paper argues that embedding non-destructive diagnostics within a condition-based risk management framework can improve stockpile safety, strengthen decision transparency, and support more rational lifecycle planning for conventional ammunition.

Speaker: Iliyan Hutov (defence technologies)

14:45 AI-DRIVEN MODEL FOR ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY IN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT TASKS

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an inseparable part of the software development process, parts of which are routine, requiring precision rather than creativity. AI code generation speeds up productivity by automatically completing code fragments and frees up time and brainpower to perform more tasks that require creativity or problem-solving. When writing code, the programmer uses not only the accumulated experience, but often also intuition, which helps him assess both the correctness of the code and the implications of its use.

At the same time, AI uses different and increasingly sophisticated models and a thought chain resembling human thinking through modern approaches to Large Language Models (LLM) and Neural Networks. However, increasingly serious problems are emerging when using AI.

The publication proposes a model of an AI algorithm with two functionally different cores: one creative and one process, including control functions. This model overcomes a large part of the identified shortcomings of AI and complements their development. The model is supplemented with quantitative metrics to determine the economic efficiency of its application.

Speaker: Mrs Miglena Angelova (University of National and World Economy)

15:00 ALGORITHMIC MANAGEMENT AS A DRIVER OF ACCELERATED GROWTH IN HIGH-GROWTH FIRMS

The focus of this report is on exploring the relationship between algorithmic management and the specifics of high-growth firms, emphasizing the mechanisms through which data and algorithms support the achievement of accelerated organizational development. The analysis examines the role of artificial intelligence in decision-making processes, resource optimization, and adaptation to a dynamic business environment. On this basis, the main management mechanisms through which algorithmic management can function as a growth factor are identified, as well as limitations related to data dependence, transparency, and ethical aspects of algorithmic management.

Speaker: Mrs Miglena Angelova (University of National and World Economy)

15:15 AI-ENABLED MULTI-SENSOR FUSION FOR FIELD DETECTION OF CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENTS: A SYSTEM-ORIENTED EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

This paper presents a system-oriented experimental study on AI-enabled multi-sensor fusion for field detection of chemical warfare agents. The proposed framework integrates ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), portable Raman spectroscopy, and electrochemical sensing through feature-level fusion and interpretable machine learning. Its contribution is twofold: first, it formulates a practical fusion architecture for portable CBRN detection systems; second, it demonstrates a reproducible Python-based evaluation workflow on a realistic synthetic dataset derived from literature-reported response patterns for nerve-agent simulants, blister-agent simulants, choking-agent surrogates, and benign interferents. The fused model outperforms the individual sensing modalities, achieving 99.2% accuracy and a weighted F1-score of 0.992, compared with 94.7% for Raman-only, 92.8% for electrochemical-only, and 81.4% for IMS-only. The results indicate that combining complementary sensing physics with data-driven decision support improves discrimination robustness and reduces false alarms under environmental variability. The study is positioned as a reproducible intermediate step toward laboratory validation and future deployment-oriented CBRN sensing systems.

Speakers: Iliyan Hutov (defence technologies), Prof. Ivan Ivanov (communication and information)

15:30 Challenges in the Development of Autonomous Energy Microgrids in Bulgaria

This report analyzes the key factors that hinder the development of autonomous energy microgrids in modern energy systems. The technological, economic, and regulatory aspects of their implementation are examined. Emphasis is placed on the role of decentralized energy solutions in enhancing the resilience and flexibility of energy systems. The possibilities for integrating renewable energy into local networks are also considered. In conclusion, approaches for overcoming existing regulatory limitations are proposed.

Speaker: Dr Kiril Luchkov (Technical University of Sofia)

15:45 RISKS AND MITIGATION MEASURES IN THE INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE INTO THE COMMAND CHAINS OF THE ARMED FORCES

This paper examines the key risks associated with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) systems into military command chains. The analysis covers the main components of the decision-making process, including data, algorithms and models, software and system integration, communication infrastructure, and the human factor. The study emphasises that while AI offers significant advantages in accelerating analysis, enhancing situational awareness, and supporting operational planning, its deployment also introduces new vulnerabilities. These include risks related to low-quality or manipulated data, malicious model modifications, software dependency vulnerabilities, reliance on communication networks, and excessive trust in automated recommendations.

Speaker: Emil Ivanov

13:30 → 15:00 Information Technology: IT IV

Remote Microsoft Teams link for session:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/330385295613391?p=ACpMxyuqbfsgvRjoau

Conveners: Arnis Cirulis (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences), Ivan Simeonov (Vasil Levski National MIlitary University)

13:30 INTELLIGENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR TECHNICAL SUPERVISION OF HIGH-RISK FACILITIES

High-risk facilities (HRF) are subject to strict regulatory oversight, encompassing mandatory registration, periodic technical inspections, and systematic maintenance of technical documentation. In practice, the management of these processes is hindered by a range of organizational shortcomings: facility data are scattered across heterogeneous registers and files, there are no automated mechanisms for tracking inspection deadlines, and the document workflow between technical supervision bodies (TSB) and facility operators relies predominantly on paper-based and traditional communication channels. This paper presents the design and implementation of an intelligent information system (IIS) aimed at digitalizing and optimizing these processes. The applicable regulatory framework - the Law on Technical Requirements for Products and the relevant subordinate legislation and the identified practical challenges are examined. Based on interviews with representatives of TSBs and facility operators, system requirements were defined and a three-tier web architecture was proposed, implemented with React (presentation layer), Ruby on Rails (business logic), and PostgreSQL (data management), supplemented by Redis for session management and background job processing, and Active Storage for file handling. Access control is secured through JSON Web Tokens (JWT) and a role-based access control model (RBAC) with three levels - administrator, TSB and operator. The system centralizes the electronic technical record of each HRF, automatically calculates and monitors periodic inspection deadlines, generates mandatory documents and application forms, and provides a traceable document workflow with version control. Achieved results are presented alongside identified limitations - the absence of a mobile client, lack of integration with external national registries, and no support for qualified electronic signatures and directions for future development of the system are outlined.

Speaker: Nikolay Nikolov (TU Sofia)

13:45 An Approach for Preventing Overload of the EC2 Service

The aim of this article is to present an approach for preventing service overload in Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) within Amazon Web Services (AWS). The study analyzes methods for preventing overload of virtual machines in AWS EC2 by comparing vertical and horizontal scaling. Developed block diagrams are presented to visually illustrate the architecture and processes involved in dynamic resource management. A practical implementation of horizontal scaling of virtual machines is also provided. For this purpose, a Python script using the boto3 library has been developed, which fully automates the configuration of key cloud components such as Launch Template, Auto Scaling Group, and Scaling Policy. The proposed solution minimizes the need for manual intervention, protects cloud-based systems from failures during peak loads, and ensures the development of a resilient, flexible, and cost-effective infrastructure.

Speakers: Evgeni Andreev (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy), Desislava Valcheva (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

14:00 Cyber Threat Intelligence based scoping of Red Team Exercises

One of the most effective ways to test a company’s security posture is through red team assessments and targeted penetration testing. This article defines one of the most effective approaches for determining the scope of the tests and the stages they go through.
The stages include getting to understand the potential attackers, their tactics, techniques and procedures, the modus operandi and the objective with which they operate. The paper also discusses the importance of people, business processes, technology and distinguishing between important and critical assets as part of effective testing.
It discusses the best tool for proper scoping is contextualized threat intelligence based analysis and red team assessment frameworks such as TIBER-EU, CBEST and iCAST. This paper describes an approach that can be used to improve the scoping of the mentioned tests and hence increase their value.

Speaker: Svilen Kamdzhalov (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

14:15 Public Trust as a Bridge between Technology, Society, and Sustainability

The accelerating processes of digital and energy transformation are fundamentally reshaping contemporary societies, economies, and governance systems. While technological innovation and the transition to sustainable energy are essential for long-term development, their success increasingly depends on the level of public trust. In this context, trust emerges as a critical factor and a central mechanism linking technological advancement with societal acceptance and sustainability outcomes.
Growing concerns related to data privacy, algorithmic opacity, misinformation, and perceived inequalities in energy access challenge public trust and, consequently, the legitimacy of institutional and corporate actors, as well as broader systems of governance and security. The discussion is positioned within an interdisciplinary framework that integrates perspectives from technological sciences, communication studies, and sustainability governance. The present study aims to examine the key components of public trust, as well as the factors generating uncertainty in the context of technological transformation.
The author’s contribution lies in advancing the existing scholarly debate on the social dimensions of technological transformation by offering practical insights for experts and organizations seeking to align innovation with societal expectations through trust-based approaches.

Speaker: Dimitrina Stefanova (South-West University)

14:30 Artificial Intelligence Use in Professional Bachelor Thesis Writing: A Survey-Based Analytical Framework

This paper examines how students used artificial intelligence (AI) while writing professional bachelor theses and asks how those patterns can be described in a way that is useful for future support and governance in higher education. The study compared the 2024 graduating class and the 2025 graduating class from the same Lithuanian institution. The target population was 399 students, and the final sample included 258 respondents, with 129 from each graduating class. The questionnaire covered thesis-related tasks, named tools, perceived benefits and risks, attitudinal statements, and open comments. Quantitative data were analysed in SPSS using frequencies, percentages, reliability analysis, Shapiro-Wilk tests, non-parametric comparison logic, and Spearman correlations. Open comments were grouped thematically. The results show a stable pattern. Students used AI most often for paraphrasing and summarising, translation, grammar and style revision, and literature search. ChatGPT and Google Scholar clearly dominated the tool profile. Students valued AI mainly because it saved time and made writing easier to manage, but they also pointed to errors, weaker originality, and the need to verify AI-generated content. The strongest agreement concerned lecturer guidance on acceptable AI use. For an engineering audience, the paper offers a layered analytical model—context variables, task-use indicators, tool-use indicators, and governance indicators—that can serve as requirement-level evidence for future AI-assisted supervision or decision-support systems.

Speaker: Renata Kondratavičienė

14:45 A Computer Vision Approach for Military Object Recognition

This research described is focused on computer vision tools implemented for detection of a particular military object (or many objects) in a observed scene, given a reference image(s) of the object(s). An algorithm for detecting a specific object based on finding point correspondences between the reference and the target image is designed. It can detect objects despite a scale change or in-plane rotation. It is also robust to small amount of out-of-plane rotation and occlusion. Reference images and a dataset with images obtained from a ground camera or drone are used for the experiments. Detection of point features in images and extraction of feature points are designed for Localization of the recognized object(s) in a scene using matches of feature points (groups of points).

Speaker: Krasimir Slavyanov (National Military University "Vasil Levski")

16:00 → 17:00 VISIT to ''Vasil Levski'' National Military University: VV II

Convener: Nikolay Dolchinkov (''Vasil Levski'' National Military University, Bulgaria)