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October 27
- Cobots4You Fair in Würzburg: THWS Team Presents Collaborative Robot Applications
➀ The Technical University of Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) showcased collaborative robotics and mixed reality (MR) projects at the Cobots4You fair, emphasizing user-friendly programming to enable non-experts to work with cobots;
➁ Key innovations included a welding cobot using MR for intuitive path definition and MR-based training systems for assembly tasks, addressing skill shortages and improving workplace flexibility;
➂ The team also demonstrated a student-developed robotic arm for checkers gameplay, highlighting practical research and fostering future industry-academia collaborations.
- Intelligent Lasers. Zero Defects. OPeraTIC Delivers.
➀ The EU-funded OPeraTIC project developed an ultrafast pulsed laser system integrating AI and real-time monitoring for efficient 3D surface treatment in industrial applications, tested across household appliances, lighting, aviation, and automotive sectors;
➁ Key advancements include 3D motion integration via robotics, versatile material structuring (stainless steel, aluminum, composites), real-time quality control, AI-driven process optimization, and Industry 4.0 compatibility;
➂ The platform aims to reduce errors, enhance efficiency, and enable sustainable high-performance manufacturing through scalable, intelligent laser technology.
- New Structure for the Electron Highway
➀ Researchers at the University of Würzburg developed a topological insulator that operates at higher temperatures (around -213°C), overcoming previous limitations of functioning near absolute zero;
➁ The material uses a three-layer quantum well structure (InAs/GaInSb/InAs) to enhance band-gap energy and structural symmetry, enabling robust spin-polarized electron transport;
➂ This breakthrough enables compatibility with existing silicon-chip technology, paving the way for energy-efficient topological electronics in practical applications.
- New Structure for the Electron Highway
➀ Researchers at the University of Würzburg developed a topological insulator functioning at higher temperatures (−213°C), overcoming previous limitations requiring near-absolute-zero conditions;
➁ The material features a three-layer quantum well (InAs/GaInSb/InAs), enhancing bandgap energy and structural symmetry for robust, low-loss electron transport;
➂ This breakthrough paves the way for energy-efficient topological electronics compatible with silicon chip technology, enabling scalable and reliable applications.
- Stroke Rehabilitation: TU Ilmenau Develops Method to Restore Leg Mobility
➀ TU Ilmenau launches a 3-year research project using EEG-based Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) combined with rehabilitation robots to improve lower limb mobility recovery in stroke patients.
➁ The project focuses on developing novel convolutional neural network algorithms to enhance EEG signal analysis and "Motor Imagery" accuracy for legs and pelvis rehabilitation.
➂ This approach aims to provide new neurofeedback-driven rehabilitation strategies, potentially restoring quality of life for stroke survivors.
October 23
- Flying Assistants for Atmospheric Research: EAH Jena Receives Funding for Pioneering MAVAS Project
➀ EAH Jena secured €2.8 million in funding from the German Federal Ministry to develop autonomous Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs) for measuring atmospheric parameters like temperature, humidity, and wind speed;
➁ The MAVs feature energy-efficient designs, miniaturized sensors, and return-to-base functionality to minimize environmental impact and airspace risks;
➂ The project fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, student involvement, and a new MAV-Lab to advance applied research and sustainable technology development.
- Towards Energy-Efficient Artificial Intelligence (AI): New Platform for Magnetic-Based AI Hardware
➀ HZDR secures €3.75M funding for MagKI and Magnon4KI projects to develop energy-efficient AI hardware using magnetic components and magnons, reducing energy consumption compared to transistor-based systems;
➁ The research focuses on integrating quantum technology and ultrafast magnetic wave analysis, with new infrastructure enabling nanoscale fabrication and terahertz-scale magnon behavior studies;
➂ Collaborations with industry partners like Infineon, GlobalFoundries, and Bosch aim to strengthen Saxony’s leadership in sustainable AI and quantum-enhanced computing.
- Heinrich Hertz Auditorium at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Designated as ‘Historic Site’
➀ The European Physical Society (EPS) honors the Heinrich-Hertz-Hörsaal at KIT as an "EPS Historic Site" for Heinrich Hertz's 1886 discovery of electromagnetic waves;
➁ A ceremony on October 30, 2025, will unveil a commemorative plaque and feature speeches on Hertz's legacy and modern physics applications;
➂ Hertz's breakthrough laid the foundation for wireless technologies like WiFi and mobile communications, recognized as pivotal to today's semiconductor and communication industries.
October 21
- Formnext 2025: Fraunhofer IAPT Expands the Automation of Additive Manufacturing
➀ Fraunhofer IAPT introduces AI-driven machine vision for additive manufacturing quality assurance, using synthetic data and cost-effective cameras to replace specialized sensors;
➁ A flexible gripping system and collaborative robots enable automated handling of diverse component geometries, even for small-batch production;
➂ Innovations include in-situ post-processing for plastic components, cutting production time by 50%, and hybrid manufacturing reducing titanium usage by over 50%.
- Formnext 2025: Fraunhofer IAPT Expands Automation in Additive Manufacturing
➀ Fraunhofer IAPT showcases automated additive manufacturing innovations at Formnext 2025, including AI-based quality control with machine vision and synthetic data to accelerate real-time defect detection;
➁ A geometry-independent gripper system enables flexible automation for small batches and delicate structures, reducing dependency on manual steps and safety barriers;
➂ New in-situ smoothing technology for plastic parts cuts production time by 50% and costs by 80%, integrated directly into FDM 3D printers.
- Empa Entrepreneur Fellowship Awarded - Three Researchers Receive Start-up Support
➀ Three Empa researchers were awarded the 2025 Empa Entrepreneur Fellowship to advance innovative products based on their research in terahertz optics, infrastructure monitoring, and laser microstructuring;
➁ Projects include ultradünne Terahertz components for 6G communication (Elena Mavrona), high-resolution strain sensors for wind turbines (Mohammad Jafarpour), and scalable laser surface microstructuring for energy and healthcare (Nicolas Zaugg);
➂ The fellowship supports commercialization efforts, including prototype development, partnerships, and startup preparations aimed at bridging research excellence with industrial applications.
October 20
- 10th Day of Engineering Informatics at HTW Berlin
➀ The Berlin University of Applied Sciences (HTW Berlin) will host its 10th Engineering Informatics Day on November 4, 2025, offering a platform for students, academics, and industry representatives to discuss technological developments;
➁ The event includes keynote speeches on industry trends, student project presentations, networking opportunities, and recruitment sessions for internships and research partnerships;
➂ Highlighted activities feature a poster session for master's students to showcase their research and corporate presentations from participating companies.
- Innovative Power Converter Technology for the Green Hydrogen Economy
➀ The Fraunhofer IEE-led HyLeiT project developed next-generation power converters using silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors for electrolysis plants, enhancing DC power quality and grid stability.
➁ Modular converter solutions with improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness were created, alongside real-time simulation models to optimize grid integration and system reliability.
➂ Partners like Infineon and SMA Solar contributed to advancing electrolyser technology, supporting decarbonization in industries and mobility, with plans for commercial deployment in renewable energy grids.
- Hamm-Lippstadt University's Novel 'SilentBedMonitor' Assistance System Aims to Relieve Caregivers
➀ The Hochschule Hamm-Lippstadt (HSHL) and 5micron GmbH are developing a contactless AI-assisted monitoring system called "SilentBedMonitor" for bedridden or mobility-impaired individuals, using wireless weight sensors under bed legs to detect movements, sleep patterns, and emergencies;
➁ The system operates 24/7 with plug-and-play simplicity, targeting private households to reduce caregiver burden and improve patient quality of life;
➂ The project is optimizing hardware and predictive software, with potential market release pending validation of reliability and usability in home environments.
October 15
- For space travel without space debris: University of Stuttgart commits to ESA Zero Debris Charter
➀ The University of Stuttgart becomes the first German university to join the European Space Agency's (ESA) Zero Debris Charter, aiming to eliminate new space debris by 2030 through global cooperation and advanced technologies;
➁ The university's Collaborative Research Center ATLAS focuses on sustainable satellite operations in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), where satellites self-deorbit post-mission to avoid debris, while enhancing communication and cost efficiency;
➂ The initiative involves student-driven innovation, interdisciplinary aerospace research, and aligns with Baden-Württemberg's strategy for sustainable, digital aerospace by 2050.
- For Spaceflight Without Space Debris: University of Stuttgart Commits to ESA Zero Debris Charter
➀ The University of Stuttgart becomes the first German university to join the European Space Agency's (ESA) Zero Debris Charter, targeting zero space debris generation by 2030 and promoting sustainable space operations;
➁ Researchers focus on Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite technologies, which minimize debris by ensuring satellites burn up post-mission while improving communication and cost efficiency;
➂ Interdisciplinary efforts in aerospace, AI, and climate technology aim to reduce environmental impacts, aligning with Baden-Württemberg’s 2050 sustainability strategy for space exploration.
October 14
- Researchers at FH Dortmund Turn Up the Voltage to Revolutionize Battery Storage
➀ Researchers at FH Dortmund aim to reduce energy losses in high-performance battery storage systems by increasing voltage levels tenfold to twentyfold, minimizing resistance-induced heat waste;
➁ A real-world lab in Ense will test 10,000–20,000V battery systems, analyze lifespan impacts, and develop insulation standards for medium-voltage DC applications;
➂ The modular high-voltage design eliminates active cooling, reduces maintenance, and enables scalable configurations, potentially revolutionizing energy storage efficiency and infrastructure.
October 13
- University of Bremen Involved in Research on Carbon Balance of Congo Basin
➀ The University of Bremen's Institute of Environmental Physics (IUP) is part of a new project to study the Congo Basin's carbon cycle, focusing on deforestation, reforestation, and forest preservation impacts;
➁ Funded by Schmidt Sciences' $45 million Virtual Institute for the Carbon Cycle (VICC), the Congo-Flex team aims to deliver data-driven estimates of net carbon flux in the region;
➂ Researchers are deploying atmospheric CO₂ measurement stations to validate satellite data and improve understanding of the basin's role in global climate dynamics.
- University of Bremen Involved in Research on Carbon Balance of the Congo Basin
➀ The University of Bremen’s Institute of Environmental Physics (IUP) is participating in a new project to measure carbon fluxes in the Congo Basin, analyzing the impacts of deforestation, reforestation, and forest preservation on the carbon cycle;
➁ Funded by Schmidt Sciences’ Virtual Institute for the Carbon Cycle (VICC) with $45 million, the Congo-Flex team aims to reduce uncertainties in carbon flow estimates and improve understanding of the Congo Basin’s role in global carbon dynamics;
➂ The project involves deploying novel ground-based CO₂ measurement stations to validate satellite data and provide region-specific carbon flux assessments, critical for shaping effective climate policies.
- Exhibition at Düsseldorf Parliament Demonstrates How AI is Transforming Crafts
➀ The exhibition 'Zukunft.Handwerk.NRW' showcases AI applications in crafts, such as smart bakery counters and voice-based quote generation, aiming to improve efficiency and customer service;
➁ The KIDiHa project, led by Fachhochschule des Mittelstands and Fraunhofer-Institut, develops customized AI solutions for small businesses, emphasizing support for craftspeople rather than automation;
➂ Despite only 33% of NRW craft businesses using AI, the initiative addresses challenges like energy costs and labor shortages while making AI accessible through exhibitions and workshops.
- ETH researchers discover security vulnerability in confidential cloud environments
➀ ETH Zurich researchers identified a hardware-level vulnerability named **RMPocalypse** in AMD's SEV-SNP technology, which secures confidential cloud computing environments;
➁ The flaw allowed 100% success rate in bypassing protections, exposing sensitive data (e.g., AI-processed messages) via memory management weaknesses in AMD processors;
➂ AMD patched the issue post-disclosure, reinforcing the critical role of secure computing for data sovereignty and cloud trust.
October 10
- Double Award Win for THU's CleanScreen Project: Using Light for Clean Touchscreens
➀ Researchers at the Technical University of Ulm (THU) developed CleanScreen, a UV-LED system integrated into touchscreens to automatically disinfect surfaces after each use, achieving 99.9% germ reduction in seconds;
➀ The system, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, uses UVC and Far-UVC light (200-450 nm) and targets high-traffic public areas like hospitals and ATMs to enhance hygiene standards;
➂ The project received the UVLaunch Award from IUVA and the Senetics Innovation Award (2nd place) in healthcare, validating its potential for real-world applications.
October 9
- Bochum University of Applied Sciences Strengthens Partnerships in Kenya
➀ Bochum University of Applied Sciences (HSBO) expanded international collaboration in Kenya through academia, research, and mobility programs;
➁ Professors from HSBO delivered lectures on topics like midwifery, sustainable engineering, and AI's impact on education, fostering ties with CUEA and the University of Nairobi;
➂ Plans to deepen partnerships via ERASMUS and explore joint research in renewable energy and waste management were emphasized.
- EU project Hydro4U brings new hydropower solutions to Central Asia
➀ The Hydro4U project, funded by the EU, develops climate-resilient small hydropower solutions in Central Asia, emphasizing affordability, ease of deployment, and adherence to ecological standards;
➁ Two demonstration plants—Francis Container Power Solution (FCPS) in Uzbekistan and Hydroshaft Power Solution (HSPS) in Kyrgyzstan—are implemented using modular and ecocompatible technologies;
➂ Advanced planning tools (GIS, BIM), community engagement, and partnerships aim to enhance energy security and economic opportunities while aligning with sustainability goals.
- EU Project Hydro4U Introduces New Hydropower Solutions to Central Asia
➀ The EU-funded Hydro4U project has developed innovative small hydropower (SHP) solutions in Central Asia, focusing on affordability, modularity, and eco-friendliness to address energy gaps in remote regions;
➁ Two pilot plants—the Francis Container Power Solution in Uzbekistan and the Hydroshaft Power Solution in Kyrgyzstan—have been deployed, emphasizing climate resilience and minimal environmental impact;
➂ The project integrates advanced tools like GIS mapping, drone surveys, and community partnerships to ensure sustainable energy access and local economic development.
October 8
- Munich University of Applied Sciences Researches in German-French Project GreenBotAI
➀ The GreenBotAI project, a German-French collaboration, aims to reduce energy consumption in industrial robots by over 25% using AI-driven path planning, simulation, and data analysis;
➀ The initiative focuses on developing trustworthy, industry-ready AI solutions, combining expertise from academia and industry partners like Fraunhofer IWU and INBOLT;
➂ Results from three years of research were showcased in Paris, highlighting improvements in productivity and sustainability under a bilateral AI innovation program.
- Precise, smart, highly productive: Innovations for additive manufacturing from Fraunhofer ILT
➀ Fraunhofer ILT showcases innovations in additive manufacturing at Formnext 2025, including high-strength tungsten components for fusion reactors and the SCaRB process for simultaneous coating and surface optimization;
➁ Development of multi-material coatings using EHLA and PEEK polymers offers PFAS-free alternatives, enhancing corrosion and wear resistance;
➂ Integrated printed sensors in metal components enable real-time monitoring, improving maintenance and operational reliability in industries like aerospace and energy
- Precise, Smart, High-Productivity: Innovations for Additive Manufacturing from Fraunhofer ILT
➀ Fraunhofer ILT showcases advanced additive manufacturing (AM) technologies at Formnext 2025, including Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) for high-performance components in fusion energy, aerospace, and automotive industries;
➁ Innovations feature monolithic tungsten-copper structures for fusion reactor durability, simultaneous coating and roller burnishing (SCaRB) to improve surface quality, and PFAS-free multi-material coatings combining metal and polymers;
➂ Embedded sensors in AM metal parts enable real-time monitoring of stress and deformation, enhancing operational safety while reducing costs through optimized processes and material efficiency.
October 7
- Wooden Computer Mouse: Green Electronics Enabled by Biodegradable Circuit Boards
➀ Empa researchers developed biodegradable printed circuit boards (PCBs) using lignocellulose-based material derived from wood waste;
➁ The bio-based PCBs, processed through fibrillization and hornification, offer comparable durability to traditional epoxy boards while being compostable, enabling easier recycling of electronic components;
➂ Successful integration into functional devices like computer mice and RFID cards demonstrates potential; future work targets enhanced resilience without compromising biodegradability for industrial adoption.
October 3
- TH Bingen and MINTplus Hand Over 3D Printers to the Art Department of Emanuel-Felke-Gymnasium
➀ TH Bingen and MINTplus donated 3D printers to Emanuel-Felke-Gymnasium to strengthen students' digital and creative skills in art and STEM subjects;
➁ The initiative promotes interdisciplinary projects merging aesthetics, design, and STEM, with CAD software and 3D printing integrated into the curriculum;
➂ The collaboration aims to embed modern manufacturing technology into regular classes, enabling students to experience the full process from concept to physical object creation.