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- Team 'RoboPig' Wins Prize at International Automation Competition 'Robothon'
➀ Team RoboPig from the Technical University of Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) secured third place at the 2025 Robothon competition in Munich, continuing its success streak since 2021;
➁ The competition challenges teams to develop robots capable of disassembling e-waste, with tasks increasing in difficulty annually—this year focusing on robots mimicking human-like logic and responsiveness;
➂ RoboPig redesigned its technical framework for broader usability and presented a phone diagnostic tool for recycling, praised by judges, as eight international teams tackled progressive challenges over several months.
July 17
- Minister Ina Brandes Inaugurates Visual Effects Lab at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences
➀ The Hochschule Hamm-Lippstadt (HSHL) inaugurated its state-of-the-art Visual Effects Lab (VFX Lab) at the Lippstadt campus, spearheading virtual production education and research in Germany;
➁ Equipped with LED walls and real-time computer graphics, the lab enables practical training for film, animation, and game production, while fostering collaborations with institutions like Filmuniversität Babelsberg and SMPTE;
➂ As Germany's only public university with a professional virtual production stage, HSHL aims to host annual workshops and advance cross-disciplinary media technology projects.
March 31
- Intelligent Wearable: Precise Health Measurements Directly in the Ear
➀ The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has developed the open-source platform 'OpenEarable';
➁ This platform integrates a variety of sensors in wireless headphones for comprehensive health measurements and security applications;
➂ OpenEarable 2.0 allows developers to create customized software with over 30 physiological parameters measurable directly in the ear.
- Hochschule Koblenz: First KickStart Team Files Patent for Innovative Payment Solution BEZLAD
➀ The first KickStart team at Hochschule Koblenz has achieved a significant milestone by successfully filing a patent for an innovative payment solution called BEZLAD.
➁ Developed by Daniel Funk, Micha Bär, Marcel Klee, in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Udo Gnasa and patent attorney Hans-Peter Müller, BEZLAD enables easy management and billing of private charging processes for electric vehicles.
➂ The university supported the project in various ways, including covering the costs of the patent application and providing access to expertise from the startup office and the StartUpLab.
- New Cryostat Installations Bring Qubit Research Up to Date
The Center Nanoelectronic Technologies (CNT) at the Fraunhofer IPMS has recently acquired new cryostats for researching qubits and qualifying superconductor systems. These low-temperature measurement devices, particularly useful for analyzing quantum systems, have been fully operational since March. The facilities were supported by the Saxony State Ministry of Science, Culture, and Tourism.
Quantum computing is expected to play a central role in research in the future, especially in medicine, material development, and traffic planning. Qubits, storage components for developing complex quantum mechanical systems, are versatile but fragile and prone to errors. Superconducting chips or circuits stabilize the fragile qubit states but require cooling down to the millikelvin range.
To ultimately realize a complex system like a quantum computer, all other technical components, such as circuits, memory chips, or thermal isolation components, must also function under these temperatures. The cryostats at CNT enable testing of various structures, materials, and circuits under these extremely cold conditions.
- Deeper Understanding: Transport Resistance Limits the Performance of Organic Solar Cells
➀ Researchers at the Chemnitz University of Technology are studying the efficiency of organic solar cells;
➁ The slow current flow in organic solar cells is due to the disordered structure of the light-absorbing layers;
➂ Transport resistance, caused by slow charge carriers, reduces the fill factor and power output of the solar cells.
- Fraunhofer HHI and NICT Unveil Groundbreaking International Optical Testbed Data Space to Enable AI/ML-Driven Networks
Fraunhofer HHI and NICT launch the Optical Testbed Dataspace (OTDS) to accelerate the development and testing of AI and ML models for optical networks. The platform fosters global collaboration by securely sharing testbed data, addressing challenges in dataset availability and enhancing network optimization and automation.
OTDS uses the Eclipse Dataspace Components Connector (EDCC) and aligns with the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA) principles, ensuring data sovereignty and export control compliance.
The technology has been successfully demonstrated through a prototype for international data exchange between Berlin and Sendai, and is set to be showcased at the OFC conference.
- Breakthrough for AI/ML-driven Networks: Fraunhofer HHI and NICT Present Optical Testbed Data Space
➀ The Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz-Institut (HHI) and the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) present the Optical Testbed Dataspace (OTDS) to accelerate the development and testing of AI and ML for optical communication networks.
➁ OTDS provides a secure space for international data exchange, offering new perspectives for optimizing and automating communication networks globally.
➂ The platform is based on the Eclipse Dataspace Components Connector (EDCC) and aligns with the principles of the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA), enabling secure and controlled data exchange in line with international standards.
March 28
- New Book for (Prospective) Engineers: »Statistical Machine Learning for Engineering with Applications«
➀ The book, 'Statistical Machine Learning for Engineering with Applications,' is published by Prof. Dr. Anita Schöbel and Prof. Dr. Jürgen Franke.
➁ It aims to provide an accessible introduction to Machine Learning concepts and methods.
➂ The book includes detailed case studies from various industrial projects, focusing on practical applications and interpretation of Machine Learning methods.
- New Book for Engineers: 'Statistical Machine Learning for Engineering with Applications'
➀ The book 'Statistical Machine Learning for Engineering with Applications' is published by Prof. Dr. Anita Schöbel and Prof. Dr. Jürgen Franke, providing an accessible introduction to the concepts and methods of machine learning.
➁ The book aims to familiarize readers with basic topics like classification trees, Bayesian learning, neural networks, and deep learning, emphasizing practical applications and interpretation over mathematical details.
➂ It includes several detailed case studies based on real industrial projects, covering a wide range of technical applications from vehicle manufacturing to process and material technology, and process optimization through image analysis.
- Hannover Messe: Smart Textiles and Surfaces – How Lightweight Elastomer Films Are Bringing Tech to Life
➀ Saarland University researchers are developing lightweight elastomer films for smart textiles, touch displays, and speakers with haptic feedback.
➁ These films can be precisely controlled to vibrate, flex, press, or pull using electrical voltage.
➂ The research focuses on creating more efficient, stable, sensitive, and responsive smart film actuators.
March 27
- Contactless Timing for Paralympic Swimming
➀ A student at the University of Applied Sciences in Hagen, Melanie Welp, has developed a contactless timing system for Paralympic swimming to prevent injury from head impacts.
➁ The prototype uses an ultrasonic sensor to measure the time at six meters and 50 centimeters before the edge of the pool.
➂ The system has been tested and shown to be possible without causing injury to swimmers.
- A Lighter, Smarter Magnetoreceptive Electronic Skin
➀ A research team at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) has developed an e-skin that detects and tracks magnetic fields with high precision.
➁ The technology is designed to be light, transparent, and permeable, mimicking the human skin's interactions with the brain.
➂ The e-skin uses a magnetosensitive layer as a global sensor to localize magnetic signals and is capable of reconstructing signals similar to how the human brain processes touch.
- Electronic Skin with Magnetic Sense Becomes Slimmer and Smarter
➀ A research team led by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) has developed an electronic skin capable of sensing and tracking magnetic fields with a single global sensor. This technology could enable new applications in virtual reality and underwater smartphone interaction.
➁ The e-skin is lightweight, transparent, and breathable, imitating the interaction between real skin and the brain. It uses a magnetosensitive functional layer as a global sensor surface, improving energy efficiency and mimicking real skin's functionality.
➂ The technology uses tomography, a method also used in medical MRI or CT scans, to reconstruct the position of signals, making it suitable for applications in robotics and human-machine interaction.
March 26
- HSBI Students Optimize Cocktail Machine – 'Caipi' as a Mechatronics Task at Gütersloh Campus
➀ Students from HSBI's Mechatronics/Automation program at the Gütersloh campus have developed a cocktail machine capable of mixing Caipirinha, complete with a lemon press and crushed ice production.
➁ The intuitive machine meets industrial standards for food hygiene and safety.
➂ The project showcases the practical applications of mechatronics and automation technology in the real world.
- FEDERATE Supports Implementation of EU Industrial Action Plan for European Automotive Sector
➀ The European Commission announced the 'Industrial Action Plan for the European Automotive Sector' to address challenges such as international competition and software-defined vehicles (SDV).
➁ The FEDERATE project will coordinate the 'Software-Defined Vehicle of the Future Initiative' to support the plan's implementation.
➂ The Chips Joint Undertaking will fund three calls for proposals focusing on RISC-V automotive hardware, heterogeneous integration, and AI-based software engineering methods.
- Fraunhofer Recommendations for Climate-Neutral Industry: Investments in Energy Infrastructure and Renewable Energies
➀ The Fraunhofer CINES excellence cluster provides recommendations for achieving a climate-neutral industry in Germany by 2045;
➁ Emphasis on the role of electricity and hydrogen as central energy carriers and the importance of energy infrastructure development;
➂ Discusses the challenges and opportunities for cost-effective and competitive energy systems, including the development of hydrogen infrastructure and electricity pricing.
- Hack the Grid: Fast Learning Curves for Enhanced Cybersecurity in the Energy Sector Thanks to Gamification Training Approach
➀ The Fraunhofer IOSB-AST introduces a new training program, 'Hack the Grid: Mission OT-Sicherheit für Energie- und Wasserversorgung', aimed at improving cybersecurity in the energy sector.
➁ The program uses a gamification approach, allowing participants to switch roles between attackers (RED-Team) and defenders (BLUE-Team) to identify vulnerabilities and develop defense strategies.
➂ The training involves working on a mobile IT/OT hardware demonstrator that integrates common automation technology and network components, providing a practical learning experience.
March 25
- Additive Manufacturing and AM Pitch Night for Users and Innovators in Additive Production
➀ The IAMHH e.V. association is hosting its first AM conference in Hamburg in May 2025, aiming to provide insights into the technology and its industrial applications.
➁ The conference program includes talks by renowned speakers from research and industry, focusing on AM in polymers, materials, processes, and applications.
➂ The AM Pitch Night will provide a platform for startups and innovators to present their projects and seek investments.
- Boost for the Startup Scene in the Rhine-Main Region: Four Universities and Futury Launch the Future Factory
➀ The Future Factory aims to establish 1,000 new startups by 2030;
➁ The initiative provides founders with direct access to funding, industry, and coaching;
➂ Participation in the BMWK’s “Startup Factories” competition offers additional funding and strengthens national competitiveness.
March 24
- Hannover Messe: University of Stuttgart Presents Innovations in Construction, Simulation, Quantum Tech and Mobility
➀ The University of Stuttgart will showcase its groundbreaking research and innovative projects at Hannover Messe 2025;
➁ The Center for Integrated Quantum Science and Technology (IQST) is focusing on photonic chips for quantum computers and networks;
➂ The Cluster of Excellence IntCDC is researching sustainable, resource-conserving construction methods.
- Stuttgart University Presents Research and Innovations in Construction, Simulation, Quantum, and Mobility at Hannover Messe 2025
➀ Stuttgart University showcases interdisciplinary research and transfer projects at Hannover Messe 2025;
➁ The university's quantum technology research group focuses on photonic chips for quantum computers and networks;
➂ The IntCDC excellence cluster explores sustainable, resource-efficient, and climate-positive construction methods.
- FH Aachen Research Award for Prof. Reke and Prof. Ferrein
Prof. Dr. Michael Reke and Prof. Dr. Alexander Ferrein were awarded the FH Aachen Research Prize for developing a cross-vehicle software architecture for autonomous vehicles.
The university emphasized the importance of curiosity-driven research and its role in mobility, sustainability, and digitalization. The prize, sponsored by the Sparkasse Aachen Citizens Foundation, recognizes outstanding research and innovation, with additional support from the FH Aachen Sustainability Fund.
Both researchers expressed their gratitude for the prize, which they plan to use to further their vision. The university celebrates the research prize as an annual event, highlighting the importance of research freedom and academic collaboration.
March 21
- Efficient, Compact, Fast, and Safe: Artificial Intelligence in Medicine at the University Duisburg-Essen
➀ Professor Hendrik Wöhrle of the University Duisburg-Essen and Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems is working to make AI in medicine more efficient, compact, fast, and safe.
➁ His research group combines the expertise of both institutions to develop new hardware and software architectures for embedded systems using AI.
➂ The goal is to create systems that are particularly efficient for AI, machine learning, and robotics, aiming for greater performance, compactness, speed, and energy efficiency, suitable for use in implants or portable devices.
- Enthusing for Mathematics and Robotics at the Winter School at Technische Hochschule Würzburg-Schweinfurt
➀ Students from the 11th grade and above participated in the Winter School at Technische Hochschule Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) to explore the fields of mathematics and robotics.
➁ The event included building and programming robots, learning about collaborative robots, and exploring fractals.
➂ The program aimed to show students the diverse aspects of robotics, including mechanics, electronics, and programming.
March 20
- The 'Funky' Side of Solid-State Battery Development
➀ The article discusses the challenges and advancements in solid-state battery development, focusing on the FUNCY-SSB project.
➁ It highlights the importance of solid-state electrolytes in improving battery performance and sustainability.
➂ The project aims to develop sustainable SSEs with enhanced electrochemical performance and explores the use of functional coatings for improved lithium transport and stability.
- Bachelor of Engineering: Discover New Career Perspectives Now!
➀ The Technische Hochschule Aschaffenburg offers Bachelor's degree programs in Electrical and Information Engineering and Business Engineering for working professionals looking to advance their careers.
➁ The programs, offered in collaboration with the Hochschule Darmstadt and supported by the zfh – Zentrum für Fernstudien im Hochschulverbund, combine self-study phases with on-campus sessions for high flexibility.
➂ The labs of TH Aschaffenburg are integrated into the on-campus events and can be used for research and thesis work.
- Novel Memristors to Combat the 'Catastrophic Forgetting' of AI
Jülich researchers have introduced novel memristive components in Nature Communications, offering significant advantages over previous versions. These memristors are more robust, operate within a wider voltage range, and can be used in both analog and digital modes. They could address the issue of 'catastrophic forgetting' in artificial neural networks, where learned information is abruptly lost.
The researchers have implemented the new memristive element in a model of artificial neural networks, achieving high accuracy in pattern recognition. They plan to seek further materials for memristors that may perform even better than the current version.
March 19
- Wireless Communication for Industry 4.0
➀ Prof. Dr.-Ing. Lisa Underberg has been appointed to the Chair of Digital Automation Systems at the Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg;
➁ Her research focuses on the enhanced application and integration of wireless communication in industrial automation systems;
➂ Underberg emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary solutions, such as the use of digital twins, and the need for human-machine interaction in implementing wireless communication systems.
March 18
- HM25: Smart Systems in Their Future Applications - Reliable, Trustworthy, and Secure
➀ Many technical applications integrate new and autonomous functions, making them 'smart'. These products operate based on information from the environment and knowledge bases, evaluated through artificial intelligence methods.
➁ The success of such products depends on mastering today's innovation dynamics and increased product complexity from the idea phase through the entire lifecycle.
➂ The Fraunhofer Smart Systems Community supports companies and explores new dimensions for reliable, trustworthy, and secure applications.