University of Bamberg
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Information Systems and Applied Computer Sciences

Chair of Mobile Systems

  1.  University of bamberg
  2. Faculties
  3. Information Systems and Applied Computer Sciences
  4. Subject groups
  5. Computer Science
  6. Chair of Mobile Systems
  7. Research
  8. Explanym

Explanym

Project Description

Initial Situation: Optimizing Mobility

Mobility is a fundamental human need. In urban areas, walking, public transport, private vehicles, and supplementary services such as e-scooters are used in a multi- and intermodal manner. Cities face the challenge of designing mobility in a way that optimally utilizes limited resources such as urban space, clean air, and public finances for a sustainable and livable future. To meet this challenge, a solid data foundation on mobility behavior and potential bottlenecks/overcrowding is essential.

Mobility also plays a crucial role in businesses for the efficient operation of people and assets. For instance, in large hospitals, medical staff and valuable equipment need to be mobile to ensure availability at the right time and place. Here too, a better data foundation can save time and resources for all involved.

Challenge: Sensitivity of Mobility Data

Mobility data of individuals are sensitive information that can reveal many aspects of personal life. Therefore, they cannot be used for mobility analyses without further precautions, even if the goal of the analysis is not to uncover individual behavior but rather to improve the general understanding of mobility. Location and mobility data of assets must also be particularly protected, especially when it comes to employee safety in the workplace.

Solution: Anonymization, Explanation, Acceptance

A possible solution to these challenges is to anonymize mobility data in such a way that no conclusions can be drawn about the behavior of individuals. Well-researched methods such as aggregation, changing pseudonyms, or generalization exist for this purpose. However, several challenges remain, such as developing innovative anonymization techniques that enable the desired analyses while preventing the re-identification of individuals. Additionally, it is important to ensure the explainability of these techniques so that service providers and affected individuals can understand the risks associated with data processing. Acceptance by the affected individuals also plays a crucial role, making it essential to determine under what conditions people are willing to consent to mobility analyses. Therefore, our goal is to develop and demonstrate practically applicable anonymization techniques in the context of mobility services to understand under what conditions such techniques are understood and accepted by those affected.

Project Coordination

Chair of Computer Science, specializing in Mobile Software Systems/Mobility

Contact Persons:

Project Duration

The research project is scheduled to run from December 2022 to December 2025.