Use of private 5G frequencies has begun

Since November 21, companies have been able to submit applications for their own 5G network to the German Federal Network Agency. According to the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy, this makes Germany a global pioneer in the private use of 5G.

New wings to make flying more economical

The industrial market for aerospace has been on the move for several years now. Now, researchers have developed novel, lightweight wings that could make flying both greener and more cost-efficient.

Swabian ‘Cyber Valley’ networks AI startups

The Stuttgart-Tübingen region is planning to bundle AI research activities, and thereby promote itself as the Swabian Cyber Valley. A new startup network in the field of intelligent systems has now been set up.

Come a little closer!

Baumüller Nürnberg is showcasing the latest enhancements to its servo pump solution, including a direct pump attachment designed to minimize service requirements for mechanical engineers and end customers.

Airbus builds AI-optimized partition wall

Using software from CAD manufacturer Autodesk, an aircraft partition wall has been designed that is 45% lighter than, yet just as strong as the traditional part.

The all-in-one Solution to suit every Engineer

Delta Electronics aims to provide a more effective means of developing machinery with its new integrated engineering software DIAStudio Smart Machine Suite.

Steel production with scrap good for the environment

Anyone with a low opinion of scrap metal should read on: A study has shown that its use in steel production in Europe significantly reduces CO2 emissions and cuts the costs of climate change by €20 billion annually.

Indonesia on track to achieving “Top Five” status

The Republic of Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has released new figures on the performance of the country’s economy.

Driving the Ffuture

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS is unveiling a new synchronous motor with higher than ever energy efficiency (IE5+). Additional options ensure it can be used in a wide range of areas, making it ideal for intralogistics and washdown applications, among many others.

DIN to simplify additive manufacturing

Standards are a factor for success in many industries. Now, a standard for quality assurance in additive manufacturing has been published for the very first time: DIN SPEC 17071 is an initiative by a number of renowned organizations.

It pays to switch!

Less complex drives, more efficient use of space and more economical drive solutions - these were the development goals behind WITTENSTEIN's new cyber motor select switch, which is designed to control several motors using a single servo drive.

Printed circuit boards of the future stretch like rubber

In an article published in ‘Nature Communications’, researchers at Ilmenau University of Technology describe their method of manufacturing revolutionary printed circuit boards that can be deformed into any desired shape.

Shaking up the Status Quo!

Polytec is unveiling its portable, high-precision measuring device with innovative laser-based vibration measuring technology – VibroGo. And as if that wasn’t enough, it’s said to be suitable for outdoor use, both in industry and research.

Sensor technology from Munich gives robots sense of touch

The sensor system, based on the human sense of touch, is the first of its kind in the world and makes robots’ grip more sensitive, thereby protecting workpieces from damage during production.

FAUSST securely joins fibers and steel

For the first time ever, fiber composites and steel can be joined together without the need for adhesives or bolts. The new FAUSST hybrid joining technology has been developed by researchers in Germany and is primarily destined for use in shipbuilding.

Graz develops 3D nanoprinting technology

The 3D printing of complex, freestanding objects in the nanometer range poses major challenges for additive manufacturing technologies. Researchers at Graz University of Technology have been working on a new solution for industry.

Everything under control

Automation specialist Lenze is looking to cater to the growing demands of Industry 4.0 with a new generation of extremely powerful controllers.

Dortmund home to Europe’s best logistics hub

Digital Hub Logistics’ digitalization services are primarily aimed at SMEs. The hub has received awards at European level for its concepts and is set to act as a guiding light for other countries.

Go (con-)figure!

Thanks to the Han Configurator, the new online tool from HARTING for designing connectors, users can now make custom modifications to the housings of series-manufactured industrial interfaces for the very first time.

Sensors will be part of work clothes in the future

Real-time data and the possibilities offered by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is attracting attention to a man-machine interface that has already been on the consumer market: wearables.

2nd Lightweighting Summit to be held on "Lightweight Tuesday"

Intelligent lightweight solutions are finding increasing use in all areas of industry, including vehicle manufacturing, mechanical and plant engineering, and energy. Their growing popularity is driven by the imperatives of resource conservation, energy efficiency and process optimization. In 2020, this vitally important field of technology will again feature strongly at HANNOVER MESSE. It will be a key focus of the Hall 23 program on all five days of the show, but especially on day two.

Thyssenkrupp replaces coal dust with hydrogen

The Group has started a new series of water vapor tests at its steel mill in Duisburg, the factory with the highest CO2 emissions in Germany. Its long-term goal is climate-neutral production.

Made to measure

The new magnetic encoder with Drive Cliq interface from Balluff is not just a universal solution - its plug-and-play functionality means it can also be connected easily and directly to drive systems.

Cleaning up with cutting-edge robotics

An assembly kit robot for hygiene areas – the MAXOLUTION parallel arm kinematics kit from SEW-EURODRIVE offers a drive and control solution that can be configured and ordered online, then put into service by users themselves.

QSC acquires shares in AI specialist aiXbrain

Digitization expert QSC AG has acquired 25.1% of aiXbrain GmbH. QSC AG also secured the right to acquire a majority interest in the artificial intelligence (AI) specialist.

Think Tank in Cottbus seeks solutions for energy transition

The new think tank of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment is intended to advise industry on the search for ways to reduce climate-damaging emissions and bring Germany closer to the goal of greenhouse gas neutrality.

My chuck it has three jaws

norelem recently launched a new precision three-jaw chuck designed to make the task of holding cylindrical workpieces internally and externally perfectly easy.

Online calculator helps obtain research allowance

It is expected that companies will also be able to benefit from indirect tax incentives for research and development expenses from the beginning of 2020. With the help of a new online calculator, they can determine the amount of funding they can benefit from.

Higher purchase premium for electric cars causes trouble

The German federal government plans to increase the purchase premium for electric cars to up to 6,000 euros and extend it until 2025. Machine builders are up in arms about the increase, with the manufacturer e.GO even fearing for its very existence.

AI and the appliance of science

The new AI algorithm unveiled in the journal Nature Communications by a team of researchers from the University of Warwick, the TU Berlin and the University of Luxembourg could play a critical role in developing new drugs and materials.

Startup printer that prints large prototypes

Equipped with variable nozzles, the new 3D printer produces large plastic parts faster and even more cost-effectively than before. It was developed by a German startup.

Sophos reveals five cyberattack trends

Threats to businesses are growing rapidly, according to security experts at British software company Sophos. They have identified what kind of cyberattacks are on the rise.

Digital Ecosystems on Center Stage at HANNOVER MESSE

HANNOVER MESSE has a revamped layout, making it even quicker for visitors to zero in on the key industrial transformation technologies of greatest interest to them. The focal point of the show's industrial transformation message is the Digital Ecosystems showcase covering the full range of software for every link in the industrial value chain. The display is strategically located at the heart of the venue – in halls 14 through 17.

Up, up and away for this high-flyer!

Hot off the press, the latest Guinness Book of Records declares FESTO's BionicOpter the world’s largest flying robotic insect.

Practice makes the robot perfect

The University of Leeds has unveiled a robot that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to learn so much from its mistakes that it is ultimately able to complete tasks up to ten times faster.

German federal government announces hydrogen strategy

The German federal government wants to promote hydrogen as an energy source and raw material. In a short paper, it has presented its ‘National Strategy for Hydrogen’, aimed at making Germany a leading international provider of such technologies.

Welcome to the Edge

Edge computing has been around for a long time, but is now celebrating a revival in industry. Not all industrial users are convinced by the cloud. Rittal has discovered the potential of the edge and developed a corresponding product portfolio. Sales of the company’s optimization software will begin in the autumn. Rittal’s new Industrie 4.0 plant in Haiger serves as a ‘live’ laboratory.

Platform economy off to a slow start

In comparison to the consumer sector, the platform economy has not yet been extensively developed in industry. A new study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI identifies urgent areas for action.

2020 is the year of the booster!

With the addition of a new booster module, the Jülich-based supercomputer JUWELS is said to be on the brink of surpassing the power of 300,000 state-of-the-art PCs, destined to make it the fastest in Europe.

Energy storage system saves energy in mechanical engineering

The innovative development comes from a startup and reduces the energy consumption of machines and plants by on average 25%, and in some cases even by half. The mechanical engineering industry presented its Startup Award for this achievement.

Methane pyrolysis helps companies protect the climate

Methane pyrolysis makes it possible to use fossil natural gas in a climate-friendly manner. The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and Wintershall Dea want to further develop the process for use on an industrial scale.

T-Systems and Siemens cooperate on IIoT

The two companies are pooling their expertise. Their new Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) service also covers customer advice from a joint team of IIoT experts.

Heavy lifting with a delicate touch

ROLLON has developed the highly robust, dynamic, yet precise Tecline linear axes as an efficient solution for handling heavy workpieces. According to the manufacturer, they are ideal for covering long strokes - even in dirty environments.

Setting Records in Shanghai

PTC ASIA, CeMAT ASIA and ComVac ASIA host 143,000 visitors and almost 2,800 exhibiting companies

Keen Interest in Artificial Intelligence

Attending HANNOVER MESSE means being face-to-face with the future of industry. The world’s leading trade show for industrial technology gives attendees a reliable roadmap to tomorrow’s connected, automated and globally oriented industrial landscape, and the show’s forums play a major role in this, as does the Industry 4.0 Forum. The attendance figures say it all: Artificial intelligence is definitely a hot topic for today’s industrial decision-makers and business leaders.

Rittal makes quantum leap in painting

The world’s leading enclosures expert is using a highly networked, automated painting system to coat enclosures. The manufacturer received a special prize for its system at the ‘Besser Lackieren’ awards.

The cost of campus networks

Many companies want to implement the Industry 4.0 concept with their own 5G networks. The German Federal Network Agency has now presented a formula to calculate the fees involved in this.

The World of Industry is transforming itself - HANNOVER MESSE, too!

Together with our exhibitors, advisory boards and the industry associations VDMA and ZVEI, we have systematically developed HANNOVER MESSE further. Starting in 2020, there are three major changes – with many advantages for you as an exhibitor.

Making light work of engine production

Laser Zentrum Hannover e. V. has now unveiled the new, enhanced R7 generation of its internal processing laser head, designed to make lightweight engine production even more efficient.

In heavy traffic, autonomous bus simply takes to the sky

RWTH Aachen University has presented an unusual concept for urban traffic: an autonomous bus that transforms into a cable car in heavy traffic and travels over the lines of vehicles.

Energy Management for the Industry

Continuous monitoring and optimization of energy efficiency.

Stalling on the German e-highway

E-highway test routes in Germany seem to be ill-fated. The first highway was hardly used and as a result highly criticized by the German Federal Audit Office, and now the launch of the second highway is facing further delays.

Guidelines to help companies implement AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a potential game changer, but it is still inaccessible for a lot of businesses. Guidelines demonstrate how the technology can be used systematically and how business models can be developed.

Climate protection with an iron in the fire!

The steel and aluminum industry is currently responsible for around six percent of global CO2 emissions. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Iron Research and MIT have now outlined how the sector’s carbon footprint can be reduced in the scientific journal Nature.

Wireless sensors keep switchboards safe

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS have developed a wireless RFID sensor system without batteries that can continually monitor the temperature in switchboards and prevent damage to them.

VW wants to bring driverless cars to the market

To achieve this, Volkswagen AG founded a competence center, Volkswagen Autonomy (VWAT GmbH), with headquarters in Munich and Wolfsburg. Similar departments are planned in Silicon Valley, California (2020) and in China (2021).

Record levels of growth for India’s robots

Sales of industrial robots in India reached a new high in 2018 with an increase of 39% from 2017. Rapid growth is expected to continue.

Highview Power is storing electricity in condensed air

Highview Power, the British company, is going to build the first commercial energy storage system in Northern England. The plant will turn electricity into condensed air to store it. The plant will serve as a buffer for wind energy.

ABB gets on board with Chinese charging stations

ABB, the Swiss technology company, has acquired 67% of the Shanghai firm, Chargedot New Energy Technology Co, a specialist in e-mobility. ABB also has the possibility of further increasing its stake in the company over the next three years.

If you want to get ahead, get a bot!

Not all robots are used in production – they are increasingly making themselves useful in offices, too. Audi is one of the organizations currently developing bots that automate monotonous operations at PC workstations.

Automatic freight scanner saves time and money

Precise logging of cargo sizes can reduce transport costs and optimize the loading process. But a lot of the time, general cargo is still logged manually. A new scanner will take care of this process automatically.

Touchy-feely robots

At the Technical University of Munich, a team of scientists led by Professor Gordon Cheng has taken inspiration from human skin and developed the very first system designed to wrap autonomous robots in an artificial skin from head to toe.

Researchers have been analyzing trends in biofuel

Many industries are increasingly relying on renewable energy. This affects manufacturing, availability and procurement processes. The “Monitoring the Biofuel Sector” reference work summarizes current and expected market developments.

Automatic machine maintenance using a platform

Services for customers are becoming more and more important in industry. Now, a startup from Munich has developed a digital platform that automates service processes for machines.

Linde joins forces with hydrogen expert ITM Power

ITM Power specializes in the production of electrolyzers for the electrochemical splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen. The two companies have entered into a joint venture to jointly use and further develop the technology.

The eco heat pump uses cheap propane gas

Heat pumps are considered the heating technology of the future. However, heat pumps still primarily use refrigerants that are harmful to the environment. Now researchers have developed a climate-friendly alternative.

Technical University of Ilmenau bundles AI research

The Thuringian Centre for Learning Systems and Robotics (TZLR) is currently under construction in Ilmenau. The German federal state of Thuringia and the state’s universities and local research institutions hope this will strengthen Thuringia’s competitiveness in the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

HANNOVER MESSE 2020: Digital transformation and logistics

Industry 4.0 and digitalization are transforming all sectors of the economy, including logistics, where once tried and proven material flow models are becoming obsolete as industry looks for new answers that promise greater flexibility and transparency.

Expansion of wind energy an absolute breeze

The expansion of onshore wind turbines in Germany in 2019 will be at its lowest rate for 20 years. Only 507 MW of new capacity was commissioned in the first three quarters of the year, reports the German Onshore Wind Energy Agency.

Can Algorithms be patented?

Between the 1950s and 2016 approximately 340,000 patent applications were registered in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Most of these related to machine learning. The majority of applications today relate to new developments in computer vision. The exciting news for industry is that between 2013 and 2016 the number of new applications for robotics and control procedures rose by around 55 per cent a year – equivalent to some 10,000 applications. But what can in actual fact be patented?

New operating Scenarios for Industry

Franziska Schätzlein works as a usability/UX consultant at Cadera Design, which develops user interfaces for customers such as Siemens, Bosch and Audi. The human-machine interface is gaining in importance, thanks to the emergence of new technologies. This poses a challenge to industry.

She talks to everyone

She studied computer science, business administration, industrial engineering and electrical engineering, learned about strategy at Boston Consulting, immersed herself in high-tech at ifm, wrote a standard work on Industrie 4.0 before anyone really knew what this term meant. Today she develops IoT solutions at Q-loud.

Astrophysicists on the Production Line

Dr. Theo Steininger and Dr. Maksim Greiner can survey the stars. The two astrophysicists from Munich learned how to do this with the aid of minimal satellite data. The two men decided not to pursue an academic career and founded a company instead. Today they use their knowledge for small data analysis in the car industry.

A very happy Automotive Supplier

It's a tale of the German economic miracle. It began in the autumn of 1948, when Gustav Klein founded his company in the Bavarian town of Schongau. Klein had had to give up his former business, a factory with over 200 employees making condensers in the Sudetenland. The new venture quickly proved a success: by 1951, Gustav Klein was already exhibiting his products at HANNOVER MESSE.

A Man who embraces Change

Born in Berlin, entrepreneur Dietmar Harting celebrated his 80th birthday in September. Originally based in Westphalia, it was in Berlin that he became widely known as a pioneer of automation.

Catching up in AI

Toby Walsh is an Australian, one of the world’s leading authorities on Artificial Intelligence (AI), and until recently was a guest professor in Berlin. He is a keynote speaker at the Industrial Pioneers Summit at Hannover Messe on 22 April 2020.

German smart factories squandering a great deal of potential

For German companies, smart factory concepts are often merely a means to cut costs, with integrated strategies significantly optimizing the efficiency of processes.

Security concepts reaching their limits

Digital security decision-makers in German companies deem conventional IT security concepts no longer sufficient for guaranteeing protection against new threats and are therefore calling for a change in strategy.

Slow delivery is a fast track to failure

Intralogistics specialist Dematic is to add a new micro-fulfillment solution to its service portfolio for omni-channel distribution.

University of Coburg increasingly focusing on digital technologies

The university plans to set up a research and application center in Lichtenfels, northern Bavaria. A degree program in 3D printing and lightweight construction is also planned.

App automates machine billing

Pay-per-use made easy: The new IoT (Internet of Things) app is integrated in the machine park via sensors and enables automatic billing, making it easier for manufacturing companies to lease machines.

Schleswig-Holstein is buying 55 battery-operated locomotives

The trains are equipped with batteries on the roof and therefore operate without overhead cables. They are designed to gradually replace the old diesel locomotives.

Porsche and Boeing want to conquer the skies together

The car manufacturer Porsche and the aerospace company Boeing are working together on the future of urban aircraft in the premium sector. Their goals are to determine possible areas of application and explore their market potential.

Anything but superficial

In combination with Active Compliant Technology, the new Active Angular Kit (AAK) being unveiled by FerRobotics is an integrated grinding solution for textured surface treatment.

Software calculates accident damage for autonomous driving

Even with autonomous vehicles, it will not always be possible to prevent accidents. Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada have now developed a technology which should at least minimize the damage and injuries in an accident.

Drones are key to factory planning

When factories are being planned or optimized, it is necessary first of all to survey their current state. A new procedure does this by camera drone and then compiles the images to create a 3D layout.

With Oncite, data remain in the company

Four German companies have developed an appliance for edge computing that makes outsourcing of data to the cloud superfluous. They are targeting the supply industry in particular.

We're working on it, Greta!

Scientists involved in the "MehrSi" joint project have recently achieved unprecedented efficiency levels for specialized solar cells, marking an important milestone in efforts to develop competitive solar hydrogen production.

Fraunhofer is extending its range of Trusted Hardware

The Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems (IMS) has developed trustworthy embedded artificial intelligence (AI) based on RISC-V. The chips will be available starting in 2020.

A technology module is reducing waste enormously

Together with partners from industry, the Fraunhofer IPT has developed a new approach to the production of optical micro-lenses. It reduces what until now has been an extremely high reject rate to a fraction of what it is currently.

Medium-sized companies are being given free training

Small and medium-sized companies often have only limited capacity to develop new working and training models in the context of digitization. Free training for employees should now help them in this.

Breaking down barriers for automation!

ctrlX Automation is an app-based automation platform from Bosch Rexroth that is designed to finally break down the barriers between machine controls, IT and the IoT.

Investments in digitization decline

Digitization projects are becoming less and less important in the budgets of German companies. In view of the increasing shortage of skilled workers, many companies are also considering relocating some of their activities abroad.

The market for home storage devices has increased by a third

According to current forecasts, there will be over 60,000 storage device installations in Germany by the end of 2019. The largest market shares are held by the companies sonnen, BYD and LG Chem.

The wireless label could take over from the barcode

Dutch-German cooperation is making this possible: in a research project, a chipless label made of nano silicon has been developed that can be printed directly onto the package. It is environmentally friendly and can be read more quickly than a barcode.

Experts to control autonomous driving

The Autonomous Vehicle Computing Consortium (AVCC) is made up of manufacturers, suppliers, and tech companies. The partners want to create the standard for a system architecture and a platform for autonomous computing.

Majority of machine manufacturers planning to leverage 5G

The majority of German machine manufacturers are planning to equip their products with a 5G interface. To achieve global technology leadership, however, politicians need to set the course for this quickly and transparently.

Driving experience of the future picks up speed

Professor Elmar Rückert has been awarded the ‘AI Thinker of the Future’ prize for his research into autonomous driving. There have also been innovations in the field of secure digital keys for vehicles.

Germany falls behind in 3D printing

Good, but no longer at the forefront: According to a study by consulting firm EY, more and more German companies are using additive manufacturing processes. However, Germany is no longer leading the way here.

It's an arms race - and this powerful cobot is winning!

On the heels of last year's successful E series launch, Universal Robots is expanding this range with the new UR16e, capable of carrying loads of up to 16 kilograms - making it ideal for automating tasks involving heavy loads without protective barriers.

Bremerhaven promotes hydrogen

Two North German companies want to set up mobility solutions based on hydrogen in the port city on the North Sea for ships, as well as trucks and buses.

Standard interface umati coming soon

The new interface, which will bring machine tools and peripherals a decisive step forward in the digital transformation, is close to completion and scheduled for release in mid 2020.

Fraunhofer bundles optics production in Aachen

A center of excellence for the production of optical products is being constructed in the university city located in North Rhine-Westphalia. In addition to the leading Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT, numerous companies are also involved.

Top job!

WAGO is extending its range of TOPJOB S terminal blocks with levers, adding a variant with a nominal cross-section of ten square millimeters.

The robots will pick the small parts

Through a combination of piece picking technology, AutoStore and its own software, the Norwegian business Element Logic Software has created a new order picking system. Machine learning plays an important part.

Alibaba has developed a super fast AI chip

Alibaba, the Chinese e-commerce giant, has built a chip that it claims will make machine learning twelve times faster. Initially, it will only be used internally by the company itself.

Industrial training is neglecting e-commerce

In training and courses of study, e-commerce doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. It’s important because machines will also use e-commerce in the future, says the Federal Association of E-Commerce and the Mail Order Sector (behv).

A slow rollout of hybrid trucks onto the e-highway

May saw the country’s first testing ground for electric trucks powered by overhead wires commence on the A5 in Hesse. But it might take some time to get results: Until now, only one vehicle was using the route regularly.

A smart cruiser with a sense of mission

IBG has developed an automated guided vehicle that offers pioneering technology for logistics tasks. The AGV's modular design means it can adapt flexibly to any challenge - regardless of size, weight or load.

Car manufacturers are IoT pioneers

German industrial manufacturers and carmakers are forerunners in the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The market is mainly driven by providers offering solutions for specific use cases, a new study has shown.

Taiwan is making the change to wind power

On the island’s west coast, Siemens Gamesa is building a nacelle assembly for offshore wind power plants in the harbor. It will be the company’s first assembly plant outside of Europe.

Artificial intelligence gets its own marketplace

20 research organizations and businesses are working together on the “AI marketplace” project. Their aim is to set up a digital platform for artificial intelligence (AI).

Transformation or business as usual?

Speed is everything in logistics, but the transformation of industry is calling existing materials flow concepts into question, and putting engineers under pressure to come up with new answers. In the past, participants in the supply chain have called repeatedly for more flexibility and transparency. But now they mean business, and it’s time for the industry to deliver. The challenges facing the logistics sector – from data and skilled personnel to platforms.

Fraunhofer is getting old machines back into shape

Lots of older manufacturing plants aren’t skilled at interconnected production. But the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT) has developed a smart retrofit plan for these plants together with seven industry partners.

Lanxess is manufacturing high-performance plastics in China

The specialty chemistry company from Cologne has opened a new factory in Changzhou, in the country’s south-east. Production at the new plant will be intelligent and highly automated.

AI could brighten up the energy sector

There are many businesses in the energy industry that would like to use artificial intelligence (AI), but are lacking a strategy for doing so. A new analysis offers some ideas and describes new application fields for AI in the energy sector.

Rheinmetall Automotive secures lightweight components

The automotive supplier has entered into a strategic partnership with Carbon Truck & Trailer, a carbon components specialist. The main focus of the partnership is lightweight components for commercial vehicles.

Bearing World by FVA

The Third expert forum “Industrial Research and Science in Dialogue with Practical Application”, focusing on the topic of bearings in theory and application will be held in Hannover, 31, March – 01, April 2020.

Sufficient renewable energy to power Austria’s industry

A study shows that in theory there is already sufficient renewable energy to 100% power Austria’s industry. There is a need, however, for action in the areas of generation and grid expansion, as well as storage.

Energy transition progressing too slowly, according to McKinsey

Germany is missing its energy transition targets. In the medium term, supply security could be at risk after the phase-out of nuclear power and fossil fuel. This is the finding of the McKinsey Energy Transition Index.

Industry views digital platforms positively

The majority of companies in the manufacturing industry in Germany clearly view digital platforms as an opportunity, and not as a threat. They are hoping digital platforms will help them boost their business, as a survey by consulting firm Sopra Steria shows.

Digital can go analog, too!

The dicoTEMP 100 from JUMO is a smart fitting designed to deliver failsafe temperature measurement using a thermostat or dial thermometer and a platinum chip temperature sensor - all at one and the same measuring point.

Wind generators go up in the air

Since August 2019, Google subsidiary Makani Power has been testing its flying wind generators off Karmøy on the coast of Norway – with mixed success. But other companies are also going up in the air.

IBM and Fraunhofer promote quantum computing

IBM and the Fraunhofer Society have set up a partnership: Together they want to develop expertise and new strategies for the use of quantum computing in industry.

Electric vehicles continue their journey with a solar car roof

Driving range is crucial for the acceptance of electric vehicles. To extend this range, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has developed a car roof with highly efficient solar cells.

The industry uses HANNOVER MESSE as a GPS

Industry 4.0, AI, AM, 5G - what technology gives us a head start in digitalisation? How can the icebergs be circumnavigated in world trade? HANNOVER MESSE 2020 answers the industry's current questions about direction.

MAN Energy Solutions joins the Bavarian Hydrogen Council

The aim of the Bavaria-based council is to drive the development of hydrogen technology. Major players from politics, business, and science are also involved.

Bosch Rexroth launches smartphone for industry

Bosch Rexroth plans to use an app-based approach to break down the barriers between IT, machine controls, and the IoT. After more than two years of development work, the new concept has now been unveiled.

Cybercriminals target IoT

A new trade has established itself on underground marketplaces: Cybercriminals are increasingly attempting to manipulate devices on the Internet of Things (IoT) in order to blackmail companies.

Cobot grinds and polishes the Ford Fiesta

Automotive manufacturer Ford uses collaborative robots to make final grinding and polishing work on vehicle bodies more efficient. Six machines process a complete body in just 35 seconds.

Large companies set new priorities

The percentage of large companies making digital transformation one of their key corporate goals has surprisingly fallen. At the same time, companies are complaining about employees’ lack of know-how.

CeMAT RUSSIA 2019 provides comprehensive overview of intralogistics

CeMAT RUSSIA ran from 24 to 26 September 2019 at the IEC Crocus Expo in Moscow. The tradeshow for materials handling, warehousing equipment and logistics featured more than 150 exhibiting companies and attracted 5,700 visitors, solidifying its position as the only intralogistics event in Russia with such a diverse portfolio.

"Like a second skin"

IT specialists at Saarland University in Germany have teamed up with scientists at the Leibniz Institute for New Materials to develop ergonomic, wearable electronics that will enable the human body to directly operate mobile devices.

IoT substation to be built in Norway

Together with Norwegian distribution system operator Glitre Energi Nett, Siemens is to build a fully digitized, automated substation. The related data will be processed in Siemens MindSphere.

VW starts its own battery production

It is an open secret: High-performance batteries are the key to electromobility. Volkswagen is now taking matters into its own hands and has started pilot production of lithium-ion batteries in Salzgitter.

First CO₂-neutral vessels scheduled to launch in 2030

The Getting to Zero Coalition was officially announced at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York on September 23. In the medium term, the consortium plans to achieve maritime cargo transport with zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Heat shield increases the efficiency of aircraft turbines

Fraunhofer researchers have developed a new ceramic surface treatment designed to make aircraft more economical, environmentally friendly, and robust. Demand for the process, which is also suitable for corrosion protection, is already high.

The man in the Garden of Eden is now called Paul

Cultivating fresh produce in the hostile environment of space - something that failed spectacularly in the dystopian science fiction movie "Silent Running" - will soon succeed, according to the initial results of the German Aerospace Center's EDEN ISS greenhouse project.

DMG MORI gets AI know-how from Upper Palatinate

Cooperations are frequently the key to successful digitalization: Companies acquire stakes in young high-tech startups, to secure access to innovative Industry 4.0 technologies. The latest example of this: DMG MORI.

Birds optimize object recognition

Functioning object recognition is a prerequisite for a multitude of applications, such as autonomous driving and production automation. Jena-based computer scientists have now developed an algorithm that can ‘see’ extremely well. The algorithm was trained using birds

Digital twin makes it faster and cheaper

The software from Simutence GmbH can be used to precisely predict the manufacturability of composite and hybrids. This does not only make it possible to dispense with expensive demonstrators, but also expedite processes

Recycling project takes electronic waste apart with ultra-precision

Within the framework of the IRVE project, a consortium of partners from science and industry is investigating how recyclable materials can be recovered more efficiently. The key to this could be a targeted, automatable dismantling process.

Scientific supernova!

On a mission to develop a fully water- and ice-repellent surface, a rising star at TU Dresden has devised a way of lasering sheet aluminum to make it superhydrophobic - a tantalizing prospect for industry.

Additive manufacturing reinvents the gas turbine

To demonstrate the possibilities and limits of powder-bed-based additive manufacturing, scientists and engineers have printed a Siemens turbine to scale – with only 68 individual components instead of around 3,000.

Bosch invests in hydrogen trucks

American startup Nikola aims to launch two trucks with a hydrogen drive in 2021. That’s getting the young company increased support from Bosch.

Fraunhofer Institute for Mechatronic Systems Design IEM introduces AR

Augmented reality offers companies extensive possibilities for optimizing products and processes. The AcRoSS research project is developing a platform concept intended to help SMEs introduce data-based services.

Startups turning to foreign skilled workers

German startups – especially technology-oriented ones – more and more often rely on collaboration with specialists from aboard to drive their developments forward.

Germany third in world in terms of robot density

The latest IFR figures show that the robotics market mostly remains concentrated in Asia. After a record year in 2018, the association expects things to slow down in 2019.

Germany’s first “Industry 4.0 trainer” teaching at Trumpf

In the future, it will be hard to find a profession that doesn’t require IT and digital skills. This explains why mechanical engineering firm Trumpf is gearing its training program to digital working.

Entrepreneur with courage, vision and skill

Dietmar Harting celebrates his 80th birthday / Within the span of a half-century, Harting forged a globally active technology group from a family business

Rhineland is top startup location for innovative production

According to the 2019 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, the Rhineland ranks among the most attractive and fast-growing locations for advanced manufacturing and robotics startups mainly focused on new technologies for business customers.

Technology class comes up short in Germany

An analysis of syllabi at general education schools has revealed: The vast majority of young people today can finish their schooling without ever coming into contact with technology as a subject.

Kassel researching more climate-friendly process heat

A new joint project is looking into how industrial process heat up to 150°C can be made available while reducing climate-damaging CO₂ emissions, with a focus on a combination of existing technologies.

Drones can also fly in the 5G network

There are multitudes of potential applications for drones in industry. However, their use requires high-performance networks. Researchers have now explored whether a separate communication network for drones is necessary and useful.

Telekom launches its own 5G network

Following Vodafone in July 2019, Deutsche Telekom has now also launched its 5G network. A total of 129 antennas have been put into operation in Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Bonn, and Darmstadt; Leipzig and Hamburg are to follow suit by the end of the year.

Hamburg to build world’s largest hydrogen electrolysis plant

A plant with a capacity of 100 megawatts (MW) is to be built in the Port of Hamburg. The hydrogen is to be produced with the aid of green electricity.

AI project Spaicer wants to make industry more resilient

Disruptions can be fatal for industrial production processes. The Spaicer project, which has won an innovation competition run by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, is investigating how companies can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to arm themselves against disruptions.

Shipping companies want to run on liquefied natural gas

According to a recent survey, a large number of shipping companies are planning to convert their ships to LNG engines. The reason for this is the more stringent sulfur limits worldwide.

Mitsubishi and CONTACT to cooperate in the IIoT

Bremen-based CONTACT Software is to work closely with Mitsubishi to complement the Japanese company’s Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions with its digital twins of robots.

Fraunhofer to inform company managers about the use of AI

Cognitive robots and machine learning promise companies high efficiency gains. A conference at the Fraunhofer IPA in Stuttgart will show managers the current potential of artificial intelligence (AI).

Deutschmann is making its embedded modules faster

The specialist in innovative network components in industrial data communication is unveiling a new product range. It is designed to facilitate significantly higher transmission rates on the Internet of Things (IoT).

Fraunhofer beats records for solar cells

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has announced on its website that it has set two records for the efficiency of silicon-based monolithic triple-junction solar cells.

Software AG joins Open Industry 4.0 Alliance

The Open Industry 4.0 Alliance collaboration platform was founded at HANNOVER MESSE in April 2019. More than 21 industrial and software companies are now members of the alliance.

The industry catalog that helps you to find the right sensors

Numerous industries depend on specialist electronics. The German Association for Sensors and Measurement (AMA) has now updated its industry guide to this area.

Research abroad extends knowledge at home

Industry is global: numerous German companies have their research carried out abroad. As a new study shows, however, this is not to the disadvantage of employees at home. Rather, national and international research complement one another.

Ikea is testing a German exoskeleton

Wearing the power suit from German Bionic, they almost look like Superman just before he takes off. But the Ikea employees at the logistics site in Dortmund are testing whether the exoskeleton actually takes the strain off their backs and prevents injuries.

STILL presents new electric forklift

With the RX 60 for loads up to 3.5 tons, STILL sets new e-mobility standards for industrial trucks.

ROSSINI - humans and machines in perfect harmony

Pilz is playing its part in ROSSINI, which aims to perfect and promote human-robot collaboration. The project has been initiated by Horizon 2020, the EU funding program for research and innovation.

Continental wants cars that learn more quickly

The DAX Group is investing in an Israeli company that wants to speed up machine learning. The basis is autonomous evaluation of large data volumes.

Flixbus wants to use fuel cells to power its buses

The company is planning to develop an electrically operated long-distance bus in collaboration with its partners. The crucial factor is the range, which is set at 500 km.

Max Planck researcher develops protection against hackers

The new ERIM isolation technology requires little computing power and protects sensitive data that is processed by online services such as Google or Facebook. Its developers have been given the Internet Defense Prize for it.

The need for e-speed

Capable of reaching a whopping 89 km/h, an electric speedboat has set a new world record. To ensure this adrenaline rush does not come to an abrupt end mid-cruise, the BasicDisplay CR0451 from ifm electronic shows relevant system data at all times.

E-vehicles are not making expansion of electricity networks more expen

Where electric vehicles require intelligent charging, there is no need for any higher investment in the distribution networks than previously. According to a study, investment up to 2050 should be EUR 1.5 to 2.1 billion a year.

Study highlights factors for Work 4.0

How can the rapid changes in the world of work be dealt with best in your own company? A study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering (IAO) has identified the important factors in achieving this successfully.

The Quantum Internet is taking shape

At the University of Innsbruck, a particle of light entangled with matter has been transmitted over a glass fiber cable 50 km long. This is paving the way for the practical use of quantum networks.

Smart case pimps consumer tablets

Commercially available smartphones and tablets are in the future to be suitable for controlling machines in industry. A research project in Cologne wants to develop a case that can be slipped over the devices.

Digital management skills help counter downturn

The economic downturn and shortage of skilled workers in Germany are causing problems for many companies. Digital management skills are, though, expected to help boost growth.

Data protection promotes digitalization

Regulatory requirements such as the GDPR and German IT Security Act were initially perceived by many companies as bureaucratic obstacles. However, it would seem that they push, rather than hinder digitalization

Interest in 3D printing with aluminum alloys catching up

Additive manufacturing processes using aluminum alloys are increasingly being used in industry. In metal-based 3D printing, they could soon be as common as nickel, steel, and titanium.

Market situation threatens digitalization of automotive industry

Declining sales, cost-cutting programs, and high investment costs in the fields of autonomous driving and electric mobility are putting automotive suppliers under pressure. In a worst case scenario, digitalization could fall by the wayside.

Telekom wants to get faster at trenching

In collaboration with an Austrian company, the Group wants to accelerate the laying of fiber-optic cables tenfold – and save money at the same time.

First specifications for machine vision

The German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) has released part one of its new standards for machine vision: the OPC UA Companion Specification Part 1.

Brandenburg University of Technology researches CO2-free fuels

In a competence center to be built in Lusatia, science and industry are to join forces to research the suitability of methanol as aircraft fuel.

Energy industry has high hopes for AI

Greater energy efficiency and smarter sensor and weather data analyses: German energy companies see great benefits in the use of artificial intelligence. However, few are pursuing an AI strategy.

5G-capable sensors optimize production

To fully exploit the potential of modern sensor technology and data-based machine and equipment control, industry needs storage and analysis options with minimal latencies. Specially tailored 5G wireless networks are to help out with this.

Simply unstoppable!

Phoenix Contact, a global market leader in components, systems and solutions designed for electrical engineering, electronics and automation, has won a fresh "Innovation Award" for its first intelligent uninterruptible power supply.

Researchers develop strong polyethylene for lightweight construction

The plastic polyethylene would be an ideal material for lightweight construction – if it were more resilient. Researchers have now solved this problem with a pure composite material for injection-molded components.

North Rhine-Westphalia wants to become one of Europe’s top ten

The goal is an ambitious one: In just two years, North Rhine-Westphalia wants to be one of the ten strongest locations for artificial intelligence (AI) in Europe. At the core of its strategy is a competence platform launched a few months ago and managed by the Fraunhofer Institute.

Wind farm check establishes ROI

The German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) promotes, among other things, wind turbines. A German startup has now developed software that can be used to establish how to make optimum use of wind farms once subsidies have come to an end.

HOYER Group expands its green fleet

The logistics company, one of the worldwide market leaders in the transporting of liquid goods, is using more and more gas-fueled trucks, thereby setting an example for low-emission, noise-reduced transport.

Photovoltaic plants also pay off without subsidies

The production costs for plants are now so low that they can be financed through long-term power purchase agreements. Two companies from Hamburg are therefore now planning to build a whole series of photovoltaic plants independently.

Telekom and Ericsson join forces to offer Campus Networks

The two mobile phone companies want to support companies in setting up private LTE and 5G networks. The aim of the partnership is to provide reliable connectivity.

Founders buy ‘their’ startup back from Daimler

Industrial companies often seek proximity to startups, in order to leverage their know-how. In the case of Familonet, a family and friends location messenger app, the founders of Familonet GmbH have now bought their app back from Daimler.

Very few startups involve their employees

Employers who involve their employees in the company can consequently increase their motivation and loyalty. Yet, this is a surprisingly unpopular model, even in startups, where financial resources are usually scarce and full commitment is required.

A centenarian setting new standards

The new Mobilair M55 and M59 portable compressors from Kaeser match the company's philosophy of "More compressed air for less energy", but offer so much more besides.

Stuttgart leverages a new filter for NO2

A new filter developed by MANN+HUMMEL in Ludwigsburg and installed at the Neckartor traffic junction in Stuttgart will not only remove fine dust, but also gases from the ambient air.

Chemical startups lack venture capital

The chemical industry is one of Germany’s key industries. But does it look set to stay that way? A new study has shown that the number of startups is declining and investment of venture capital is low.

Hackers exploit old service account

An incident in Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland, which saw hackers successfully encrypt servers and databases in several hospitals, shows just how thorough an effective cybersecurity strategy needs to be.

Norway backs floating wind farm

‘Hywind Tampen’ consists of a total of eleven wind turbines. They are to supply the drilling platforms on the Gullfaks and Snorre fields off the Norwegian coast with electricity from wind energy.

IPH offers free training for SMEs

Institut für Integrierte Produktion Hannover (IPH) gGmbH courses are available for specialists and managers in SMEs in Lower Saxony and Bremen, providing basic training in driverless transport systems, big data, and digital factory planning.

On a roll!

The Stauff Group is continuously expanding its capacity to pre-assemble complex line systems by adding innovative tube bending centers to more and more of its global network of sites.

Highly complex medical robots created through 3D printing

The innovative medical robot for cancer treatments of the future comprises numerous components, joints, and parts with varied material characteristics – and yet it can be produced using a 3D printer in a single-step process.

EDAG presents fully autonomous city vehicle

The ‘EDAG CityBot’ is a networked robot vehicle, which, with its numerous different modules, is capable of handling a wide variety of transport and work situations.

Machines conclude smart contracts

The model ‘Industrie 4.0 Recht-Testbed’ research project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi), aims to put negotiations and contracts between machines on safe legal ground.

SMA tests electromagnetic compatibility

The company is erecting a test facility on its premises in North Hesse to test the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of photovoltaic components.

Hamburg Germany’s IT specialist capital

German digital association Bitkom has analyzed the employment figures: The city states of Hamburg and Berlin boast the highest density of IT specialists. In absolute figures, Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia rank highest.

German companies favor off-the-shelf AI

According to a new study by Deloitte, the majority of German companies purchase ready-made solutions for their artificial intelligence (AI) needs. Smaller companies can also benefit from these solutions.

New efficiency atlas facilitates optimization

The Association of German Engineers (VDI) has thoroughly revised its atlas on resource efficiency in Germany. The interactive map of Germany helps pinpoint advice centers and funding opportunities.

The 5th generation underpinning the 4th revolution

Fraunhofer IPT has teamed up with other partners in the "5G-SMART: 5G for smart manufacturing" project to research what specific business models 5G offers to companies, suppliers and mobile network operators seeking to accelerate the introduction of 5G in production.

IoT solution for containers in the lid

Sensors are to record data from industrial containers and forward it to the cloud. It will then be used for maintenance, quality control, and logistics.

Quality 4.0 no easy feat for companies

Digital technologies for quality management (Quality 4.0) can create substantial added value for industry. However, their implementation is anything but easy, as a new study shows.

Logistics companies avoid startups and end customers

Many logistics companies shy away from the risk. At least this is how the results of two new surveys can be interpreted. They show that cooperation with startups and B2C business is hardly ever pursued.

WomenPower careers conference issues call for papers

Submission deadline:10 October

Baltic Sea ferry Copenhagen gets rotor sail

The Scandlines ferry is already equipped with a hybrid drive and will now also be equipped with a rotor sail, further reducing its CO2 emissions.

5G requires better cybersecurity strategies

For the networking of Industry 4.0 production processes over 5G, companies need new security strategies. This is the finding of the Cyber Security Report 2019 published by consulting firm Deloitte.

Kaiserslautern tests 5G stations made of wood

Many companies are planning their own 5G campus networks and may therefore be interested in research being carried out at the Technical University of Kaiserslautern, where researchers have been using wood to design environmentally-friendly, esthetically-pleasing transmission masts.

The "Logistics IT" pavilion at HANNOVER MESSE

With a new "Logistics IT" pavilion, Deutsche Messe is helping small and medium-sized software providers to present their solutions at HANNOVER MESSE. The pavilion is located in the Digital Ecosystems display in Hall 17, right at the heart of the world's biggest trade show for industrial technology.

Innovative lasers get the green light

In response to overwhelming customer demand, Z LASER GmbH has expanded its tried-and-tested ZD laser series with the new ZD 520 variant featuring a highly visible green laser.

Larger aircraft also to fly electrically

The German Aerospace Center wants to equip a Dornier Do-228 with an electric and hybrid-electric drive. It is hoped this will make short and medium-haul flights environmentally friendly.

German data specialist buys Phoenix Digital

With the acquisition of the US specialist, Softing from Haar near Munich is expanding its portfolio of industrial communication solutions in the field of automation.

French solar road disappoints

As part of a pilot project in Normandy, solar panels were installed in the asphalt to supply street lamps with energy, but with disappointing results.

Innovative valve train saves 20% fuel

A new, electrohydraulic valve train dispenses with camshafts and oil in the cylinder head. It has been in test operation with natural gas since October 2018 and, according to the developers, has so far run smoothly.

KIT tests Power-to-X on container scale

Ten liters of yield per day is not much – but the test facility at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is a special one: It combines all four necessary process steps to produce fuel from carbon dioxide, water, and green electricity.

Twin tankers travel 10,000 hours on methanol

The two methanol transporters used part of the loaded fuel for their own engines. According to the shipping company, this prevented the emission of almost 1,000 tons of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxides.

Virtual warehouse wins Red Dot Design Award

International intralogistics specialist Dematic has won another prize for its creative and innovative communication design – the renowned Red Dot Award in the Brands & Communication Design 2019 category.

Project seeks companies for free security check

German information network ‘Die Deutsche Wirtschaft’ (DDW) is offering companies a security analysis of their data. It is in particular looking for companies with 100+ employees.

Horstwalde becomes test site for drones

The Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) wants to test the use of ‘unmanned aircraft systems’ near Berlin. BAM and Wirtschaftsförderung Land Brandenburg GmbH (WFBB) have agreed to cooperate on this.

AR glasses give forklift drivers better visibility

During maneuvering, the glasses not only display information and warnings, but also allow the driver to see through obstacles, so to speak.

New joining process makes lightweight construction more efficient

With the trend for e-mobility, the automotive industry increasingly requires lightweight components and innovative manufacturing processes. A new joining process for steel and thermoplastic composites promises greater efficiency.

Mobile robot automates semiconductor production

As a result of digitalization, demand for semiconductors is constantly rising, forcing manufacturers to boost their efficiency through further process automation. An autonomous robot from KUKA aims to help with this.

AI to predict chemical processes

BASF wants to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to predict chemical processes. The insights thereby gained will provide insights into the aging of chemical compositions, for example.

Female engineers keen to change jobs

The fact that a third of female engineers want to change employers within the next year – a figure significantly higher than that for their male counterparts – should be cause for concern for the industry.

Powering future generations of robots

KOLLMORGEN Europe GmbH showcased its new, second generation of drives specially designed for use in robotics during a two-day partner event at its Brno plant in the Czech Republic.

Entrepreneurial spirit sinks to record low

The entrepreneurial spirit in the industrial nation of Germany seems to be in a bad way: According to an analysis by KfW Research, both the number of startups and the desire to be self-employed are declining.

Producing solar modules in Europe pays off

Photovoltaic production in Europe is competitive across the entire value chain – provided the size of production plants is right. This is the finding of a study by the Fraunhofer ISE.

VoIP telephones have serious security flaws

The Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology SIT has found serious security flaws in VoIP telephones. Users are strongly recommended to install updates that have since been made available to correct these vulnerabilities.

e-mobility infrastructure growing very slowly

The number of public charging stations for electric vehicles has risen from 13,500 to 20,650 within one year. A significant increase, but the figures still fall considerably short of the original targets.

Liability issues come to the fore for 3D printing

You can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs – this is also the case for 3D printing. Some liability issues are yet to be clarified for this comparatively new technology, a market that insurance companies are increasingly catching on to.

Pump up the volume!

The Open Pump project, a joint venture led by Bremen University of Applied Sciences, provides people in regions where water is scarce with easy-to-understand guides so they can build wind turbine-powered water pumps.

Wireless communication test system ready

The method, used to test wireless communication systems in industry, is now ready after three years of development work.

Osnabrück plans AI hub for old railway building

Startups and a research center for artificial intelligence (AI) are soon to move into a 100-year-old roundhouse in the Lower Saxony city. The Coppenrath Foundation is an investor in the project.

Truck pays autonomously when charging

A truck that pays autonomously at electric charging stations: Experts from Daimler Trucks are working on this vision and have successfully carried out an initial automated payment process.

Network promotes methanol in shipping

The ZIM innovation network Green Meth, initiated by the Maritime Cluster Northern Germany (MCN), focuses on the development and market launch of propulsion systems for small ships based on methanol.

https://www.hannovermesse.de/de/news/branchen-news/branchen-news-autor

In its new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, the car manufacturer incorporates a number of body parts made of natural fibers, making the vehicle more lightweight and less energy-intensive to produce.

Rhine ferry ‘Horst’ to navigate its route autonomously

RWTH Aachen University wants to fully automate the busy ferry in a test run; partners from industry are also on board.

Cyber criminals taking increasingly more targeted approaches

The good news in cybersecurity: The number of ransomware attacks was down in 2018. The bad news: Cryptominers present a new and increasingly growing threat.

Battery raw materials not expected to become scarce just yet

Raw materials for batteries are in demand, since they are used both in the automotive industry and for energy system transformation. If a study by Wood Mackenzie is to be believed, however, we should not expect to see any shortages in the next few years.

Coal phase-out to have very little impact on electricity prices

This is the finding of an in-depth analysis conducted by the ‘Agora Energiewende’ think tank, according to which the phase-out will in fact bring financial benefits for energy-intensive industries.

US’s first large-scale offshore wind farm to be built

The wind farm off the coast of New York will be built by Norwegian company Equinor and initially comprise 60 to 80 wind turbines. Experts see enormous potential for further wind farms in the US.

Berlin builds first push boat with fuel cells

Elektra is to be used within Berlin and on the route to Hamburg. It will be the world’s first emission-free push boat. Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall.

New hydrogen storage systems remove the pressure

A new consortium of companies plans to build hydrogen storage systems for large quantities of the gas, based on liquid organic hydrogen carriers; these should also facilitate safe and easy transport of the gas.

Simulation optimizes fiber-reinforced plastics

Fiber-reinforced plastic is popular in lightweight engineering, but its production confronts small companies, in particular, with a big challenge. A new approach from the Fraunhofer Institute should help.

Cobots need smart human colleagues

Human-robot collaboration (HRC) can only make economic sense if human employees are appropriately qualified, as researchers at the ifaa Institute in Düsseldorf point out.

Next-generation cobot technology

For many years, RK Rose+Krieger and the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechatronic Systems Design IEM have been working together on implementing customized automation solutions. The two partners have now presented their latest project - a 3D spatial gantry for a robot-based processing system.

European lightweight seat wins US award

The ultra-lightweight seat, manufactured in a new process, has received the prestigious Altair Enlighten Award in Michigan, in the trendsetting ‘Future of Lightweighting’ category.

US companies invest twice as much as EU companies

“Vorsprung durch Technik” may be a famous advertising slogan from Germany, but when it comes to gaining a competitive edge through digitalization, the US is considerably more proactive than its European counterparts.

The “Vogelflug” ferry is set to become emissions-free

The shipping company responsible wants to convert ferry operations between Puttgarden and Rødby entirely to battery power. But there are a few hurdles that still have to be overcome.

Bad atmosphere is putting the brakes on investment

Current figures about the business climate from both small and large companies in manufacturing industries show that expectations are plummeting. This could also lead to postponements in investment in the area of digitization.

Germany is exporting less electricity

Germany’s electricity exchange balance has fallen in the first half of 2019. In addition, more electricity was imported than exported in June for the first time in a long period.

Brandenburg can become a pioneer in hydrogen

A study of potential by the Deutsche Wasserstoff- und Brennstoffzellen-Verband (German Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (DWV)) confirms that the federal state of Brandenburg has a good chance of becoming a center for the hydrogen industry.

How do we charge e-vehicles today, how will it be done tomorrow?

The technologies and trends that are shaping today’s charging infrastructures for electric vehicles and the role they will play in the future has been analyzed in a study by Bayern Innovativ and the Fraunhofer IAO.

Loaded with great ideas!

Maximum cost-efficiency, maximum simplicity, maximum freedom - ZELTWANGER Holding aims to set new standards in automated machine tool loading for turning and milling machines with its new X-CELL WB.

Canadians breathe new life into diesel

Canadian company dynaCERT exhibited its 'HydraGEN' technology at HANNOVER MESSE 2019, a solution that creates hydrogen for diesel engines on demand and supplies it through the air intake to enhance combustion. Now its first major order has landed.

elexon wants to energize e-vehicles

The newly established joint venture elexon has set itself the aim of driving forward with the development of the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles throughout Europe. This includes solutions for charging parks and large fleets.

Telekom is continuing to rely on AI for its glass fiber expansion

In a pilot project for planning broadband expansion, the company used a smart software package based on artificial intelligence (AI). The system is intended to be rolled out throughout Germany in the near future.

A technology platform is developing new foams

Five companies and two research institutes are planning to develop new hybrid material foam systems in a partner network. The target audience is the automobile industry in particular.

Haulage companies are open to alternative engines

Technological and infrastructural measures are required for the conversion of German logistics firms to reduced emissions concepts. These are the findings of a recent analysis.

Compressed air is also taking the smart option

The pneumatics and compressed air specialist Mader has joined with the portal “Looxr Druckluft 4.0” to present examples of intelligent compressed air solutions.

Standards save money and enable progress

eCl@ss is an industrial standard with which products and services can be described consistently. A new study uses it as an example of how much money can be saved by standardization.

Hackers are attacking telephones and printers

Hackers have succeeded in penetrating company networks through printers and telephones. This is according to a report by the Microsoft Security Team. Many companies apparently continue to underestimate the risk of an attack via the Internet of Things (IoT).

A new catalytic converter produces methanol sustainably

The catalytic converter made with nanotechnology generates the basic chemical methanol from CO2 and hydrogen. According to the researchers involved, the method is close to market readiness.

Truck tarpaulins are going hi-tech

Trucks are becoming self-sufficient: The Fraunhofer Institute has developed a textile solar cell that can be used to generate electricity in a truck tarpaulin. This can then help to refrigerate the goods it is transporting, for example.

After wind power, solar energy is also coming from the sea

Companies from Belgium and Luxembourg are planning to set up the first solar power plants on the open sea in the North Sea. They are to be used in combination with offshore wind power.

The Swiss rely on hydrogen mobility

The largest hydrogen production plant in Switzerland is currently being planned near the Gösgen hydropower plant (Solothurn). Using electricity from hydropower, it is initially expected to generate fuel for 50 fuel cell trucks.

Asparagus and lettuce will soon be harvested by robots

A research team at the University of Cambridge has made a robot that’s fit for harvesting out in the fields. The Vegebot is slower than a human, but it simply doesn’t get tired.

Industry 4.0 needs new finance models

In the context of digital transformation, most industrial companies have a high demand for finance – but there is a shortage of appropriate offers. A report analyzes existing and possible future finance models

A new industrial association in Bavaria is supporting AI

The association from Regensburg wants to drive forward with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in industry. Its first aim is a cross-sector exchange of knowledge within Bavarian industry.

Artificial intelligence is getting its own DIN standard

A steering group is developing a standards roadmap for artificial intelligence (AI) as quickly as possible. Its members come from business, politics, academia and society.

"Industrial Transformation" shows the way forward amid turbulent times

HANNOVER MESSE 2020 will coincide with a period of rapid technological change and political and economic uncertainty. Sporting its 2020-season lead theme of Industrial Transformation and featuring some 6,000 exhibitors, the world’s top trade show for industrial technology will shine a light on the opportunities arising from new technologies, changing buyer behavior and a growing awareness of climate protection.

Bosch intensifies its industry 4.0 strategy

The company is increasingly focusing on networking its own plants and those of its customers. Internal restructuring measures are intended to encourage this approach.

AI accelerates chip industry growth

The growing demand for components for AI solutions could become a strong growth driver for the chip industry. While Asian and US companies in particular anticipate higher sales, Europe is in danger of falling behind.

A 3D printing project combines research and practice

An interdisciplinary institute at the University of Paderborn is to promote industrial 3D printing. It aims to achieve a rapid transfer of research findings into production practice.

"Making Indonesia 4.0"

The goal is clear: By 2030, Indonesia aims to become one of the world's 10 largest economies, with the road to be paved by the digital transformation of Indonesian industry.

The mood of German startups is sinking

Fewer and fewer young companies assess their current situation as better than in the previous year. At the same time, skepticism about Germany as a business location is on the rise in the startup scene.

In Switzerland, resistance to 5G is growing

While the industry can hardly wait for the introduction of 5G, parts of the Swiss population are resisting the new mobile communications standard. This is delaying the expansion of the necessary infrastructure

The Federal Government wants to strengthen AI and startups

Federal Economics Minister Peter Altmaier (CDU) has set up a “Stabsstelle Künstliche Intelligenz” (“staff unit for artificial intelligence”) to drive specific projects forward. In addition, a representative was appointed for startups and the digital economy.

Bringing owls to...Austin

An interactive owl installation created using the know-how of igus GmbH is set to become a unique meeting place in the U.S. city of Austin.

The data economy is still in its infancy

Data is often said to be the oil of the 21st century. However, a new study shows that most German industrial companies still work using analog methods and have little to do with the data economy – mainly because they lack the expertise.

Smart glasses and headsets do help – but not always

Smart devices such as smart glasses or modern headsets are said to have great potential in industrial production and advanced training. A study has investigated when they help – and when they become a burden.

AI that estimates the temperature in electric motors

Researchers at the University of Paderborn are working on software that helps predict the temperature of electric motors. Artificial intelligence plays a central role in the process.

Baden-Wuerttemberg promotes digital competence

“Data Literacy and Data Science” is the name of the project in which nine universities from Baden-Wuerttemberg plan to teach skills required in processing large amounts of data. The offer primarily targets small and medium-sized enterprises.

Companies firmly believe in the Internet of Things

The acceptance of the Internet of Things (IoT) is increasing rapidly worldwide. A study conducted by Microsoft shows that nine out of ten companies are now convinced that the technology is critical to their business success.

Light-emitting diodes set to transmit data in the IoT

A new research project aims to leverage Li-Fi technology to meet the high requirements of the Internet of Things (IoT) in terms of transmission rates, reliability, and short latency times. The problem is that the technology only works at a short distance.

AI hot on the trail of credit card fraudsters

The UBS Card Center in Switzerland is using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to significantly reduce the number of fraud cases involving credit cards. The company has now received an award for its innovative security software.

KIT accelerates battery production

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has developed a new coating process for electrodes in lithium-ion batteries that enables their production in record time; although limited to the laboratory setting to date, there are plans to industrialize the process.

Rockwell Automation expands its partner network

Another system provider has qualified as a Recognized System Integrator and is expanding Rockwell Automation Germany’s partner network.

ActiveCockpit takes care of warehouse logistics

The company Bosch Thermotechnik uses the interactive communication platform ActiveCockpit in its warehouse in Wetzlar to quickly and easily access the current status of outgoing goods.

Smart wind turbine maintenance cuts operating costs in half

German machine manufacturer Schaeffler and Italian transmission specialist Bonfiglioli have developed a predictive maintenance system for yaw-driven wind turbines that is expected to considerably reduce operating costs.

IT specialists and mechatronics engineers are well respected

A study has examined the social prestige of the 25 most popular training programs in Germany: as prestige influences career choices, it is a decisive element in the availability of skilled workers.

Car manufacturers struggle with the smartphone

Car and smartphone – two basic objects that the majority of Germans use as a matter of course. Manufacturers are faced with big problems when it comes to their interaction, however, reports Simon-Kucher & Partners.

Asahi Kasei develops the world’s first polyamide foam

The material, with the name PA Foam, will enable significant reductions in the weight of and noise in automobiles. The foam will be presented in September in Stuttgart.

Nokia benefits from the 5G technology trend

The Finnish network equipment supplier was able to considerably increase its turnover in the second quarter, attributed primarily to the new 5G network.

The expansion of photovoltaics is approaching new highs

After a slowdown in 2018, the British research and consultancy company Wood Mackenzie is expecting a global record expansion in 2019 of 114.5 GW – and even up to around 125 GW in subsequent years.

Smart services make small companies strong

Small- and medium-sized enterprises can benefit considerably from pushing to link their offers of smart products and smart services. A short study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO demonstrates how.

Business psychologists to sort it out

There is a need not just for technical skills but for psychological competencies as well, to adapt organizational structures and corporate culture to the requirements of digitalization. This is the aim of a new study in Freiburg.

All in one diminutive footprint!

YASKAWA is expanding its ArcWorld range of turnkey robot-based shielding gas welding cells with the ultra-compact ArcWorld RS Mini and ArcWorld HS Micro.

Lack of IT-specialists poses a threat to digitalization

German agencies for IT freelancers have been growing more slowly since 2018 as legal uncertainties have made many companies shy away from employing freelance IT specialists. This could prove harmful for digitalization.

Startups to promote IT security

The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) has initiated StartUpSecure to help good ideas on IT security get put into practice quicker.

New steel materials crank up 3D printing

Over the next three years, the AddSteel project plans to create new function-adapted steel materials for additive manufacturing. The German plant manufacturer SMS group is responsible for the coordination.

Open-source software plans reliable power grids

Scientists at the University of Kassel, in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute IEE, have developed software that will considerably simplify the planning and operation of more effective power grids.

Demand for engineers falls

The international HR service provider Hays has published its skilled employee index for the second quarter of 2019: although the run on skilled employees has fallen back, the prospects on the labor market remain good.

Wind energy in the doldrums

Not since the year 2000 have so few wind power plants gone into operation as in the first six months of 2019. The relevant associations are calling for the approval logjam to be broken.

Training arrangements under scrutiny

Training and staff development courses should be modernized urgently, reported by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB). A new study based on the career pathway of a specialist in warehouse logistics shows how to do so.

EnBW and Karlsruhe test intelligent bollards

In the digital world, the boundaries between industries are becoming increasingly blurred: the energy provider EnBW and the city of Karlsruhe are testing an intelligent bollard. It is designed to increase public safety and, among other things, should be able to classify vehicle types.

Indonesia soon to turn trash into energy

As the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy reports, the Indonesian government is planning to sell off three waste-to-energy pants on Java in 2019.

The upcoming cobot takes care of the night shift on its own

Omron and VisCheck are currently developing a cobot that works autonomously. This robot of the future should even be able to adjust the manufacturing machine that it operates when necessary.

Digital recruitment not working

Data-controlled recruitment methods are still a rarity in German companies. The will might be there, but there is often simply a lack of expertise, as a recent study reveals.

The DEKRA Award honors startups

The security award will feature a new category in 2019: Startups from the digital economy are invited to apply with their innovative solutions.

BASF wants to replicate buildings virtually

The chemical company is supporting the development of a digital-twin software platform aimed at reducing construction costs, while simultaneously improving the energy efficiency and optimizing the lifecycle of buildings.

Dresden startup measures and tracks containers

The Dresden-based startup Packwise has announced that it will be bringing an innovative container monitoring system onto the European market at the beginning of 2020. It will be able to do significantly more than just track the location of containers.

Vienna launches 5G challenge for startups and industry

The introduction of 5G is imminent. To make what is still for many a theoretical concept more tangible, the City of Vienna has launched a challenge for startups and industrial companies, with €400,000 up for grabs for new 5G projects.

Digital logistics brings big advantages

Time-saving, fewer errors, and reduction of the physical burden on employees – these are the advantages that companies perceive in digital logistics. Purely analog concepts are clearly inadequate for future needs.

German companies have no plans when it comes to AI

The study “Artificial intelligence – areas of application, challenges, and objectives of AI projects in large companies and concerns” has investigated if and how AI is currently integrated into everyday corporate life. The results have revealed certain shortcomings.

Data analysts in high demand

Although there are increasingly more specialists for the evaluation of large data volumes, demand exceeds supply. Consulting firm Bain recommends turning to both external specialists and internal training.

Microsoft invests US$1 billion in AI startup

The US multinational technology company wants to set up a supercomputing platform in Azure with the help of San Francisco-based startup OpenAI. The aim of the partnership is to offer customers more and better services in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

LANXESS takes on Mercedes SUV

The Cologne-based specialty chemicals company is equipping the Mercedes-Benz GLE with polypropylene-based front-end supports. This not only saves on weight, but also on time and money in production.

Higher demands on employees

Just like industrial automation, which has been in common use since the 1970s, digitalization is not expected to cost more jobs than it creates, according to a study. However, new jobs are expected to come hand-in-hand with higher demands on employees.

Hermes and VW want smart parcel delivery couriers

Hermes Europe and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are holding a joint competition: Startups from all over Europe are invited to apply for the ‘Future Logistics Challenge’ by submitting their solutions for the ‘vehicle – parcel delivery courier’ ecosystem.

Robots with green thumbs!

The team from the MASCOR Institute at FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences - winners of the HANNOVER MESSE Robotics Award in April - is now launching a startup with its ETAROB field robot as part of a European Regional Development Fund program.

In the Tetra Pak warehouse in Singapore, the twin is in charge

Contract logistics provider DHL Supply Chain has implemented a digital twin warehouse for international packaging group Tetra Pak. This is the first project of its kind for DHL in Asia Pacific.

BMW is jumping at autonomous driving in China

The Bavarian automobile company is planning to build a data center for driverless vehicles with the Chinese Internet giant Tencent. By 2021, the production of vehicles with semi-automated functions is set to begin.

A smart camera is checking 3D printing

In precision manufacturing, additive manufacturing processes offer plenty of scope for improvement. An optical measurement system for quality monitoring should now be able to close one loophole.

Study compares footprint of alternative drives

A clever mix ensures the best environmental balance – this is the finding of a study that compared the life cycles of electric and fuel cell vehicles.

Baden-Württemberg celebrates its most innovative companies

Baden-Württemberg has awarded its Environmental Technology Prize for the sixth time. Companies from the region are recognized for innovative products and processes in environmental technology.

Real laboratories are given the green light

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy has selected 20 companies in the ideas competition “Real laboratories for the energy transition” that are to try out energy technologies under real conditions and on an industrial scale. The central issue is hydrogen technology.

Companies feel threatened by digital platforms

Around half of all German companies have a critical attitude toward digital platforms. They see industry and niche platforms as particularly threatening.

Industrial Pioneers Summit gearing up for second season

Following its successful debut this year, the Industrial Pioneers Summit will be entering its second season HANNOVER MESSE in April of 2020. Some 500 participants from around the world are expected to attend the event on 22 April 2020 being staged under the tagline "Industrial Transformation". Toby Walsh, international expert on artificial intelligence, to give keynote address.

A new chip works like the human brain

Researchers at the RMIT University in Melbourne have developed a chip that imitates the basic functions of the human brain. The scientists regard it as a milestone on the road to true artificial intelligence.

German startups attract record investments

In the first six months of 2019, startups in Germany received a total of EUR 2.8 billion. Never before has so much been invested in new companies.

3D printing is becoming the industry standard

A large part of the manufacturing industry already uses additive manufacturing processes. The main areas of application include prototype and pilot series production.

The EU is backing centers of excellence for AI

European research centers for artificial intelligence (AI) are set to join together to create a network. Funding of EUR 50 million is available to help. The focus is on industrial application.

Data processing should be attack-proof

The TU Ilmenau in Thuringia is conducting research into a fail-safe and attack-proof processing system for digital data streams. It intends to transfer the results to industrial applications.

Bosch plans an AI campus for 700 experts

Bosch is planning to invest around 35 million euros in the construction of an AI campus in Tübingen to intensify the exchange of experts in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

CogniCrypt detects vulnerabilities even better

In the “it’s OWL” transfer project, Fraunhofer IEM and achelos GmbH worked together on the further development of CogniCrypt, a static code analysis tool. The results have been incorporated into the open source product.

Kion is building a battery factory in Germany

The demand for battery-powered vehicles in the logistics sector is growing rapidly. The forklift truck manufacturer Kion is responding to this trend.

Formel D and CPS Quality will be leading the way in future

The two companies are big service providers to the automobile industry, specifically in the area of quality management. CPS Quality is now being integrated into the Formel D group, but is continuing to operate under its old name.

Power-to-gas can pay off

A study of the potential of power-to-gas in German distribution grids has shown that PtG plants are technically useful and economically worthwhile in certain grid structures.

Humans are the biggest cyber risk

Although many manufacturing companies are aware of the danger of cyberattacks, they are not adequately equipped to deal with it. According to one study, they consider human error and sabotage as the greatest threat.

Managers expect further training efforts even after work

A survey conducted by Sopra Steria Consulting found that Germany’s decision-makers are counting on further training - even outside working hours - to deal with digitization.

New Port and Industrial Logistics Park in Indonesia

DP World and Maspion Group sign preliminary agreements in ceremony attended by Indonesia’s President and Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince.

So long, oil!

The Laser Applications Center (LAZ) and the Research Institute for Innovative Surfaces (FINO) at Aalen University have succeeded in developing groundbreaking surfaces aimed at preventing the adhesion of oily substances.

Blickfeld sweeps the board at “Start me up!”

The startup Blickfeld, founded at the Technical University of Munich, has developed a powerful and cost-effective LiDAR sensor system, for which it received the most lucrative German startup prize.

Futurologists name the top 100 innovations

An international team has examined technical and social innovations for the European Union that could radically transform value chains in the coming years.

Daimler back in pole position

At the AutomotiveINNOVATIONS Awards 2019, the Group was honored as the world’s most innovative automobile manufacturer. Daimler last achieved this in 2006.

SMS digital and Voith cooperate in the IIoT

In order to develop joint, cross-sector applications and services in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the two companies plan to pool their resources and share expertise.

Smartphones & co. also useful in production

Smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches are widely used in daily life – in production, on the other hand, they are hardly ever used at all. And wrongly so, as the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology FIT has found.

SMEs are highly innovative

Every year, TÜV Süd awards an innovation prize for particularly successful collaborations between SMEs and research institutes. The basic prerequisite is a successful market launch of the respective innovation.

German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy dispatches AI

To promote the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to SMEs, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy has dispatched at least 20 AI trainers throughout Germany.

Hamburg residents get their electricity from volcanic rock

The city of Hamburg is currently testing the world’s largest energy storage system: with environmentally-friendly wind and solar power temporarily stored in some 1,000 tons of volcanic rock.

The transport robot functions better in the campus network

At Deutsche Telekom’s ‘hubraum 5G Ecosystem Summit’ in Berlin, EK Automation demonstrated how the smart factory can work: with a combination of 5G and edge cloud technology.

Swabian All for One Group expands

The consulting company has taken over an Austrian sensor technology specialist, to strengthen its expertise in industrial transformation.

SMEs want their 5G frequencies fast

In addition to the 5G frequencies already auctioned for network operators, the German Federal Network Agency has now announced the allocation of local frequencies to companies. The German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (BVMW) is pressing for rapid implementation.

CIGS solar cells set a new record

Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) have developed flexible thin-film solar cells that achieve unprecedented efficiency.

Managers become CDOs in twelve weeks

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular often lack the right staff to tackle the digital transformation. A twelve-week advanced training course at the Munich Business School is designed to prepare managers for this task.

Intelligent E-Chains take care of their maintenance themselves

A new communication module connects smart machine components made from high-performance plastics, whereby integrated sensors enable predictive maintenance.

GFT Technologies increasingly targeting industry

The company from Stuttgart cooperates with in-GmbH from Constance, which offers the Sphinx Open Online platform. In doing so, GFT aims to offer its customers more solutions for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0.

The digital twin helps win the award

Feinguss Blank was honored for a particularly light and innovative wheel carrier at the Newcast trade fair in Düsseldorf. It was created using a digital twin and 3D printing.

Protectionism makes international business more difficult

According to the new AHK World Business Outlook of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), the cooling global economy and global trade disputes are increasingly curtailing the international business of German companies.

Sun and wind beat coal in the 1st half of 2019

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) has presented data on net public electricity generation for the first half of 2019. The data indicates that solar energy systems and wind turbines have been the leading power generators to date.

Many industrial parks lack a fast Internet connection

According to a media report, more than a third of industrial parks in Germany lack fast Internet access. The proportion is even higher in some federal states.

Magdeburg invests in intelligent mobility

Scientists at the Otto-von-Guericke-University in Magdeburg are tasked with developing the Greater Magdeburg area into a model region for intelligent mobility. Saxony-Anhalt’s Ministry of Transport is funding the projects.

Manufacturing orders on the decline

There was a significant reduction in the number of incoming orders in the manufacturing sector again in May. Experts expect industrial activity to remain weak in the coming months.

The Venus’ flower basket as a role model

A Bavarian project group is investigating how biological models can be leveraged for technical innovation. It is focusing mainly on both sustainable and better products.

Driving a driverless future

The global development network at Continental Automotive aims to use the CUbE platform to prepare technologies such as ABS, radar and redundant brake systems for robo-taxi series production.

Lower Saxony promotes 5G networks in companies

The Lower Saxony Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, Transport, and Digitalization intends to provide €50 million for the construction of company-owned 5G networks. Since no 5G devices are yet available for production, companies can initially switch to 4G.

HR managers hope AI will support them in recruitment decisions

HR managers in almost one in four companies believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will revolutionize recruiting. However, freelancers in the IT sector do not share this view.

Deutsche Telekom launches first German 5G network

The Group officially opened its 5G network to customers on July 3. However, it is currently only available in Bonn and Berlin. First rate plans have been fixed.

TRUMPF drives networked manufacturing

Swabian machine tool manufacturer TRUMPF invests in Dresden IT startup ZIGPOS, a specialist in high-performance positioning technology and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Exoskeleton helps with assembly

More and more industrial companies, in particular car manufacturers, are investigating the use of exoskeletons in production. Initial field tests have already been successfully carried out.

Porsche launches low-volume production with bio-based materials

The new 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport from Porsche features body parts made of natural-fiber composite materials, developed jointly by two research institutes.

Bio-based composites reduce work steps

A newly developed, bio-based hybrid fiber for lightweight construction contains 50% renewable raw materials and promises to reduce production costs thanks to a simple manufacturing process.

Indonesia - at a glance

Indonesia is the world’s largest island state, comprising some 17,500 islands on an area of 1.9 million square kilometers. The largest and most famous islands are Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

New job profiles: Cloud Builder and IoT Officer

Industry 4.0 and the digital transformation are creating new job profiles, such as Cloud Builder and Chief IoT Officer. Current priorities for new IT jobs are artificial intelligence and computer security.

AI detects leaks in compressor units

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute are developing artificial intelligence (AI) that searches for leaks in compressor units, thereby significantly increasing their efficiency.

Wind turbine rotor blades boost recycling

The Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research presented new techniques for recycling wind-power rotor blades at the LIGNA trade fair in Hanover. For example, they can be processed into ultra-lightweight and efficient insulation mats

Six questions are sufficient for the resource check

The new resource check of the Association of German Engineers (VDI) is helping companies to check the extent of digitization of their production. They can also extend their digitization expertise with a visualization.

Renewables are covering almost half of energy consumption

In the first six months of 2019, renewable energies covered 44% of the electricity consumption in Germany. This is according to the figures of the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) and the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW).

Digitization is not necessarily a job killer

A new analysis attests to positive impacts on the job market for digitization and automation: technological change tends to create more jobs than it destroys.

Henkel is tackling the SUV with foam

Together with the service provider RLE, the group is demonstrating how the weight of vehicles can be reduced: in some areas of the bodywork, epoxy foam is being used in place of metal.

An aluminum weld seam that no longer tears

At the University of Stuttgart, a process has been developed to significantly improve the formability of Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) made of aluminum. The metal sheets reduce the weight of vehicle chassis, among other things.

Beko is entering the cloud with compressed air

Through acquisition of a minority holding in optiMEAS Measurement and Automation Systems GmbH, the compressed air specialist Beko Technologies is planning to extend its range to include Industry 4.0-compatible components.

The voice-activated assistant shines with its knowledge of paint

Researchers and developers in the coatings industry should soon have a digital laboratory assistant at their side to speed up searches for combinations of different additives. It should be available in 2020.

Partly automated engineering increases efficiency

Even partial automation of engineering processes paves the way for the optimal balance between cost and benefit. A new study highlights this, using the example of series and special machine construction.

Münster gets the nod for battery research

The research center develops new concepts for battery cells and procedures for large series production. This should make Europe more independent from Asian suppliers.

Logistics group ALSO penetrates the Internet of Things

Swiss wholesale and logistics group ALSO has acquired IoT platform specialist AllThingsTalk. With this acquisition, the company wants to expand the technical ecosystem for its partners.

A robo-cop from Denmark is killing germs

The cobot rolls automatically through the hospital and disinfects its surroundings as it does so. The manufacturer was given the 15th Innovation and Entrepreneur Award in Robotics and Automation for this development.

German Federal Government to fund 5G in six model regions

From Lausitz in Brandenburg to Amberg in Bavaria: six selected model regions will receive funding in the coming years to set up a 5G network.

Engineers and computer scientists continue to be in high demand

The extremely high demand for engineers and computer scientists continues unabated. According to the Engineer Monitor from the Association of German Engineers (VDI), Q1 2019 saw a new employment record.

Munich trials autonomous driving

Until December 2020, the City of Munich will be analyzing, testing, and evaluating new mobility technologies. The results will be used to develop the basis for the deployment and control of automated and connected vehicle fleets.

Making sense of the energy revolution with AI

The "Sensors in the Grid" research project is back and off to a flying start on a large scale. With the aid of big data and artificial intelligence, this revamped initiative is now putting large-scale grid monitoring solutions to the test to help support the energy revolution.

Investments in wind power and photovoltaics increase

The latest New Energy Outlook from Bloomberg predicts a radical drop in electricity prices from renewable sources. Investments in gas, on the other hand, are stagnating.

KraussMaffei Berstorff wants to improve plastic waste recycling

The mechanical engineering company is planning to build a state-of-the-art technology center for extrusion technology and a test plant for plastic waste recycling near Hanover.

Women need to be bolder when looking for a job

According to a recent study, women often apply for jobs for which they are overqualified. But it is not just in this respect that woman are far more reticent than men.

Photovoltaics could supply 10 million households

This is the finding of a projection for Germany made by energy supplier E.ON. Moreover, according to E.ON, many photovoltaic users generate more electricity than they consume

Consortium of companies to build digital cargo ships

The digital twins will make it considerably easier to record, analyze, and predict the condition of real ships. A number of companies from several countries are behind the project.

Fraunhofer’s Clouditor enhances security for medium-sized enterprises

The new compliance tool enables companies to audit the configurations of their cloud-based applications, to create the basis for greater security.

Educational support to help German companies abroad

International business school ESMT Berlin and the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) are planning to jointly train executives in emerging markets. This will also benefit German companies.

Cobot picks parts from tool bin

In a technology study, companies Schunk, Roboception, and KUKA have investigated how collaborative robotics can be implemented in a non-structured environment, taking bin picking as the test scenario.

The digital automotive plant gains momentum

Vodafone, e.GO Mobile AG, and Ericsson have launched mobile data networking in the production industry. For the very first time in Germany, the 5G technologies mobile edge computing (MEC) and network slicing are being used in automotive production.

Chemical industry not advancing rapidly enough

According to a study conducted by EY, companies in the chemical industry see opportunities for cost savings, data economy, and automation through digitalization. Yet, there are clear gaps between potential and implementation.

HANNOVER MESSE to host GMIS in 2020

Following Abu Dhabi and Yekaterinburg, the third Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit will take place 20–21 April 2020 at HANNOVER MESSE in Germany. Focal points include sustainable industrial development and global adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

AI engine Vinnie to warn of accidents

Boston-based company Suffolk is developing an engine to detect and warn about dangerous situations on construction sites. The software is based on artificial intelligence (AI).

The StartGreen Award supports green founders

Startups from the fields of climate protection, green economy, and sustainability have until July 31, 2019 to apply to compete in the StartGreen Award 2019 (SGA). The competition is organized by the Borderstep Institute for Innovation and Sustainability.

AI popular with German startups

Startups are not only a constant source of innovation themselves, they are also keen to use state-of-the-art technology: More than a third are already leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), while a further 38% are planning to implement it.

Intralogistics sector grows by 10 per cent in 2018

Growth in the German intralogistics sector was significantly higher than forecast last year. According to the Federal Statistical Office, the production volume in intralogistics rose to a total of 23.1 billion euros, 10 percent more than in 2017.

Like a breath of fresh air!

SMC has completely overhauled its pulse valve portfolio. The new models in the JSXFA series are intended for users who want to get the most power out of a single blast of air - by achieving high peak pressure, while keeping air consumption to a minimum.

Learning steel mill to become even smarter

Big River Steel’s steel mill in Arkansas in the US is the world’s first learning steel mill. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are now set to work together to make further energy and cost savings possible.

Samsung wants to up its stake in mobile communications

The South Korean group can supply mobile operators with all the relevant equipment for setting up a 4G or 5G network. Initial tests have already taken place.

3D printing also works with superalloys

Drawing on the additive manufacturing of engine parts for aviation as an example, researchers have shown how this process can both cut costs and facilitate more sustainable production.

Software is keeping vibrations under control

Vibrations during milling lead to rough surfaces and accelerated wear of production systems. A new clamping system combined with simulation software should optimize the process.

Digitization is creating new business models

Two thirds of all companies attest to “a significant influence” of digitization on their business models, just under half of them have even established “completely new products and services”. These are the findings of a study of the Bitkom digital association.

Lower Saxony ends funding of DAB+

The regional parliament of Lower Saxony is calling for the state’s government to support and develop technologies that are open to the future – such as 5G – rather than terrestrial reception of digital radio.

More and more companies are moving to the cloud

Cloud computing is developing into the standard for German industry and is being used by a significant majority of firms. But cyber security remains a problem.

Daimler is already installing its own 5G network

In “Factory 56” at its Sindelfingen plant, the corporation is currently setting up the first 5G wireless network in an automobile plant anywhere in the world. Its partners are the network equipment provider Ericsson and the telecommunications company Telefonica Deutschland.

HP is launching the largest research center for 3D printing in the wor

The US printer manufacturer HP has just opened its “3D Printing and Digital Manufacturing Center of Excellence” in Barcelona. Hundreds of experts will be driving forward with Industry 4.0 developments here

The first Africa Europe Award goes to MAN

The Augsburg-based company MAN Energy Solutions has won an award for a sustainable, efficient, decentralized electricity supply system in Africa. Its achievements in promoting German-African economic relationships were also recognized with the prize.

AI startups in the financial sector are raking in more money

Money attracts money: the Hamburg consultancy firm Appanion has collected data about new German AI companies for a study and noted that investors are particularly keen to back AI financial service providers.

Data management for medium-sized companies wins two prizes

The Bad Homburg-based service provider DataIntelligence has won two awards at the same time for its analytical platform “DI - Datenmanagement mit Methode”. The solution is specifically tailored to the requirements of medium-sized companies.

Thyssenkrupp is developing its own AI

Thyssenkrupp Materials Services is showing that the introduction of artificial intelligence can be achieved even without buying in solutions from outside: “alfred”, the AI developed in-house, is set to make digitized processes in the corporation more efficient.

The older the population, the more robots are in use

There is a direct relationship between the average age of the population and the industrial use of robots. This is the conclusion of a study by Randstad. Germany is particularly affected by this trend.

IFOY Test Days

In the upcoming year, the IFOY Test Days will again take place in hall 4 of Hannover fairground from February 6 – 13, 2020.

One in three companies is already using 3D printing

Additive manufacturing processes promise not only benefits in terms of efficiency and cost savings in production, they are also making a contribution to climate protection. Larger companies, in particular, are increasingly making use of the technology.

Computer tomography is now controlling foundries

Automated, CT-based testing procedures are suitable for various industrial applications. Yxlon is now unveiling systems for use in modern foundries.

A robotic partnership you can rely on - now available to buy!

Pilz has further enhanced its Pilz Robot Measurement System "PRMS" for standard-compliant human-robot collaboration. In addition to the tried-and-tested rental version, it is now also available to buy.

Spain begins regular operation of 5G

Spain is the first European country to begin regular operation of the new 5G cell phone standard. But network operator Vodafone has dampened the euphoria: so far it has only three types of smartphone that are suitable for fast Internet access.

Volkswagen intends to make batteries in Salzgitter

Volkswagen AG is planning to invest in the Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt AB. The aim is to build a factory for European battery cell production in Lower Saxony from 2020.

How digitization is changing the world of work

Digitization is leading to more flexible organization of work and encouraging training. These are the main results of a company survey by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB).

Cobot Hubert drives autonomously through the warehouse

In cooperation with three German companies, Chemnitz University of Technology has developed a driverless transport system that detects people and is therefore particularly suitable for collaboration. Test runs are currently being conducted.

Fraunhofer is developing cost-effective redox flow batteries

Researchers have succeeded in reducing the manufacturing costs of redox flow systems significantly. They allow sustainably produced electricity to be stored temporarily in a cost-effective way.

Indonesia - Economy and investment

Indonesia is an emerging economic power, and is currently transforming from an exporter of commodities to an exporter of goods and services.

You can now study how to become an entrepreneur

You can now study how to become an entrepreneur

Renewable energies create eleven million jobs

According to the annual report of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the number of people employed in this sector worldwide has increased once again. The field of photovoltaics in particular is creating new jobs.

Scientists extract fuel from the air

Researchers at ETH Zurich have produced a synthetic fuel from the CO2 and water in the ambient air. The technology will soon be used in a facility in Spain.

China develops ethical guidelines for AI use

The Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence has developed a series of guidelines to ensure the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). The guidelines may also be adopted by the Western world.

Hamburg successfully completes 5G testing

The Hamburg Port Authority, Deutsche Telekom and Nokia have successfully completed a one-and-a-half year 5G field trial at the Port of Hamburg. The project partners now claim to have a “clear technological lead”.

A micro-intelligence engine learns in a closed system

The Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems IMS has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) engine for embedded systems and microcontrollers. It does not require any connection to the cloud.

Modern AI promotes industrial security

A new publication by the Industry 4.0 online platform describes how artificial intelligence (AI) can solve Industry 4.0 security issues. It focuses on generative adversarial networks (GAN).

Apple is apparently interested in Intel’s modem division

According to an IT news service report, talks about a partial takeover have been underway since last year. The Intel subsidiary is based in Germany.

Successful digitizers abide by the rules

According to the consulting firm Capgemini’s IT trend study, companies that digitize successfully follow certain principles such as good planning and shorter release cycles.

The likelihood of a German liquefied gas port rises

The Federal Council of Germany has approved the development of an infrastructure for liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is intended to help ensure a sufficient supply of energy. LNG is used, among other things, as a fuel or to generate process energy.

Chief digital officers struggle with initial difficulties

In order to successfully shape the digital transformation, many companies have created the position of Chief Digital Officer (CDO). The consulting firm Egon Zehnder has compiled an interim balance for the first few years of work.

Strong winds provide an energy boost

The German Federal Statistical Office published new figures for Global Wind Day in June showing a sharp increase in wind power generation in the 1st quarter of 2019. As the number of wind farms is stagnating, the increase is attributable to the weather.

Daimler satisfied with the 3D metal printing

In the NextGenAM project, the Group tested whether automated printing of metal parts for the automotive and aerospace industries is ready for application in practice - with positive results.

The USA dominates in terms of AI patent applications

The German Patent and Trade Mark Office has submitted an evaluation of artificial intelligence (AI) patents which indicates that US companies are clearly in the lead.

Seeing hands make light work!

The Taiwanese robotics specialist Techman Robot was at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to show how it became one of the world’s leading suppliers of co-bot solutions in such a short space of time.

A Munich startup gets off to a flying start with battery twins

The young company Twaice develops predictive battery analysis software based on digital twins. Thanks to the great interest shown by the automobile industry, the Munich startup has already collected more than two million euros in fresh funds.

Microsoft shuts down a large AI database

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) requires huge amounts of training data. Microsoft made a large database available for research purposes in 2016. It has been deleted without notice.

Particle foam shows great potential in vehicle construction

Using the example of a vehicle’s side door, the SamPa project shows the possible uses of particle foams in a composite system. This has resulted in the implementation of a new process chain for processing plastics in particle foaming and injection molding.

The AI sprint

Data analysts are in demand. Unfortunately, the job market has virtually dried up, especially for HR managers in small and medium-sized companies. A group of researchers from the Research Center for Information Technology (FZI) in Karlsruhe, Germany, has developed an open source application that enables self-service analytics to be used to address the shortage of skilled workers.

Infineon plans to acquire Cypress

The German semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG plans to acquire the California-based Cypress Semiconductor Corp. for 23.85 US dollars per Cypress share. This amounts to an enterprise value of 9 billion euros.

We’re not selling an operating system

Ralf W. Dieter, chairman of the Dürr AG board of management, explains the importance of platforms for AI, why the cloud is losing its appeal and how to manage the complexity of machine data in the future.

The perfect daughter-in-law: data scientist?

In this special feature, Prof. Dr. Oliver Niggemann, researcher and lecturer at the Institute for Automation Technology, University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg and one of Germany’s foremost pioneers in computer engineering, explains what industry desperately needs.

IG Metall sees many companies as poorly prepared

The trade union has compiled the risks, uncertainties and opportunities of digital change for the workforce in a digital transformation atlas. Based on the results, the trade union makes concrete demands on industry and politics.

Manufacturing sector remains sluggish

According to the German Federal Statistical Office, the business climate in the manufacturing sector has deteriorated since the beginning of the year, and it is likely that industrial activity will continue subdued. The construction sector, on the other hand, is enjoying an upswing.

Digital index indicates a very good business climate

The key findings of the joint digital index of the digital association Bitkom and the ifo Institute show that although ITC companies assess the current business situation as very good, they are less optimistic with regard to the coming months.

Four-point plan to make companies crisis-proof

According to a new study by the consulting firm Bain, many German industrial companies are not properly prepared for an economic downturn: companies that have a strategy and see the crisis as an opportunity have a clear advantage.

Fuel cell drive gets a boost

Battery or fuel cell? Although batteries seem to be way ahead to date, a new study takes a closer look at the technologies and concludes that the two technologies should receive the same level of funding.

Robots for vacation replacement

A German company has recently started renting out working robots. They can also be used as vacation replacements or in cases of illness.

Car manufacturers massively increase investments in electric cars

Although it took a long time, the German automotive industry’s changeover to electric cars finally seems to be picking up speed. The consulting firm EY reports that companies are currently massively increasing their investments in such factories.

Industry can hardly wait for 5G

Industry is eagerly looking forward to the new 5G mobile communication technology. According to a study by Capgemini, 79% of German industrial company managers even see it as the key factor in their digital transformation process.

Siemens integrates Senseye into its operating system

The predictive maintenance software Senseye has now been implemented in Mindsphere, the cloud-based, open IoT operating system from Siemens. It connects products, plants, systems and machines.

The Internet of Things gets uniform standards

At an international event in Munich, the World Wide Web Consortium announced plans to standardize the networking of devices and machines. Practical testing is already underway.

The new backbone

Mechanical engineer Dr. Frank Sroka is responsible for 5G implementation at the Osram plant in Schwabmünchen, near Augsburg. In his view, 5G is more than just a new frequency. It is an opportunity to rethink transport and production processes – also for service providers.

Evonik enters a 3D printing development partnership

Evonik and Evolve Additive Solutions are planning to work together to design new additive manufacturing materials that will be used in the forthcoming STEP procedure.

Dark data threatens corporate cybersecurity

“Dark data” refers to information of unknown content and business value. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting this unclassified data.

Logistics companies are a danger to themselves

Most logistics companies view digitalization as a tremendous opportunity. But the industry is lagging behind when it comes to implementing projects of this kind – and, according to its expert association, is bringing a major risk upon itself.

Siri, what is the pump doing?

In the last issue of this magazine, the German-Austrian AI mastermind Professor Sepp Hochreiter demanded the talking lathe from industry. Benjamin Schwärzler from Vienna is already working on this project with his startup company Workheld.

Digitalization expected to jumpstart recycling

Against a backdrop of dwindling resources, the industry hopes to see new concepts for the “circular economy,” i.e. recycling, and its accelerated introduction through digitalization. This involves new challenges and new business opportunities alike.

Demand surges for photovoltaic facilities

More and more requests for solar-power and home-storage unit installations have appeared in Germany, especially from private customers.

Bosch among the top ten companies in AI research

The Stuttgart-based technology corporation has set new standards for research and development in artificial intelligence (AI) with its Center for Artificial Intelligence. Google and Microsoft have gone even further.

Human Machine Interfaces -Touch in the third dimension

Despite the introduction of the iPhone and the general trend towards touchscreens, the push-button still has a rightful place in industry. Researchers at Saarland University have now developed a membrane that adds a third dimension to touchscreens.

11th E-MOTIVE Expert Forum

E-MOTIVE is one of the worldwide leading Industry Events. The Conference will bring together more than 250 participants from the automotive and supplier industries as well as leading research institutes to discuss current topics and trends in the field of electric vehicle drives.

The power of shared intelligence

Launched at this year's HANNOVER MESSE, the Schneider Electric Exchange collaboration platform aims to help a diverse community develop and scale business solutions and tap into fresh market potential.

Medical technology passes the 30-billion threshold

For the first time ever, the medical technology industry has brought in more than 30 billion euros within a single year. Thanks to digitalization, this positive trend may continue.

Automotive manufacturers release traffic data to the public

Doing the right thing: Several major automakers have recently published safety-relevant, anonymized traffic data under a free license. This unbiased server platform is intended to improve traffic safety through the exchange of data.

Swabian company saves costs with digital twins and 3D printing

A company based in Swabia has combined digital simulations with additive manufacturing in its production processes for precision investment castings. This reduces the time to market while saving money for the company.

LOW CODE - Shadow IT?

In Amberg, Germany, Siemens manufactures one of its most important products: the Simatic controller. At the same location the company is also developing downloadable applications for its customers. App development alongside hardware production – how does this function?

A new joining process makes ships lighter

In the field of lightweight construction of automobiles, weight-reducing mixed compounds of steel and aluminum have been in use for a long time now. But now a new joining process will make particularly thick mixed compounds possible as well – especially for ship construction.

Solar power added to wind farm

A world premiere in Spain: German company Heliatek has now installed its solar film at a wind power plant in Albacete. This will prevent the turbines from drawing power from the grid when there is no wind.

Digitized production is more environmentally friendly

Digitized and networked production processes facilitate more sustainable production. The associated increase in efficiency brings plenty of potential for savings – not only in terms of costs, but also in emissions of environmentally harmful gases.

DHL increasingly working with Google Glass

The logistics company is investing in the second generation of these “smart glasses”. They enable virtually supported picking that functions more efficiently than traditional processes.

Cooperation between new and established companies is working

A significant number of German startups are already working side by side with established companies to develop products and services together. Most regard the cooperation as positive.

Kerosene made from air could make flying more sustainable

A different take on flying Dutchmen: Rotterdam The Hague Airport and a European consortium want to create the world’s first commercial system producing aircraft fuel made from air.

Sandvik is printing diamonds in 3D

The Swedish machine and tool maker Sandvik has developed an innovative diamond composite material. This makes additive production of the extremely hard material possible.

Researchers plan development boost for autonomous cars

How can autonomous e-vehicles be developed more quickly, cost-effectively and resource-efficiently? And how can the safety of those vehicles on the road be increased? A research project is trying to answer these questions

Ultrasound is making communication easier

A Fraunhofer research group is working on a new approach to contactless communication between human beings and machines. Ultrasound converters are designed to capture three-dimensional distances, movements and gestures in this context.

Technology and industry go hand in hand

The technology sector is engaging ever more closely with other areas of industry. This is revealed by a report from Deloitte, which has also identified some megatrends: IoT and 5G, analytics and artificial intelligence, together with as-a-service business models.

A video shows HiFlecs in practice

According to its creators, the new industrial wireless standard makes wireless networking and control of industrial systems secure and reliable. Partners are currently being sought for its further development.

German investment in AI startups is low

Over the last ten years, startups that focus on artificial intelligence (AI) have received EUR 1.2 billion of investment here – a small sum in comparison to other countries.

Startups to be given an opportunity in the countryside

The district of Günzburg in the Bavarian part of Swabia is planning a digital startup center. It is set to open in spring 2020 to provide support to startups in a rural setting.

AI conducts research into new 3D printing materials

The Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology is looking for new methods to extend the 3D printing of metals to other alloys and materials. The researchers are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to do so.

Green electricity will soon be the cheaper alternative everywhere

Prices for electricity from photovoltaics and onshore wind power have fallen considerably again. Green electricity is also likely to become cheaper than electricity from coal, oil or natural gas almost everywhere in the coming years.

Water “facilitates” injection molding

It doesn’t always have to be high-tech chemicals: at the Technical University of Chemnitz, injection molding technology for plastics processing has been further developed to save a lot of weight, using water as the crucial auxiliary medium.

Drones can also fly safely when out of sight

German Air Navigation Services (DFS) and Deutsche Telekom have launched a joint venture to roll up the drone market: “Droniq” enables safe drone flights over longer distances when they are out of the pilot’s sight.

Communication with a silver lining

Together, the new nexogate interface and the Murrelektronik cloud are set to significantly simplify the intelligent use of comprehensive data from machines and plants.

Scientists find vulnerability in FPGA chips

Cloud services and the Internet of Things (IoT) often use FPGA chips, which are considered relatively secure. Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have now discovered a vulnerability in the chips that needs to be protected against attacks by cybercriminals.

Autonomous driving : Car manufacturers advised to step on the gas

According to a study conducted by the Center for Empirical Communication Research (ZEK) at the DHBW Ravensburg, more and more Germans feel the automotive industry should also build autonomous vehicles.

Apple and SAP want more machine learning

At the “Sapphire Now” technology conference in Florida, SAP CEO Bill McDermott and Apple boss Tim Cook announced an intensified cooperation between the two companies. Joint projects also include augmented reality applications on the iPhone and iPad.

Film-generated solar power

Dresden-based company Heliatek is testing special photovoltaic films for energy generation in a pilot project. Their advantage is that they can be installed on very different facades.

Germany is very attractive for digital experts

According to a recent study, Germany is one of the most attractive labor markets worldwide for digital specialists. Only the United States is more popular.

Wireless transmission is already beyond 5G

Researchers at two Fraunhofer Institutes have for the first time managed to transmit a 4K video in real time via a wireless THz link, demonstrating a wireless transmission capacity of 100 Gbit/s.

German machine exports to the EU remain stable

German industry exported 43.8 billion euros in machinery in the first quarter of 2019 - 2.1% or 42.9 billion euros more than in the same period last year. The number of orders nevertheless declined.

LEAG focuses on solar energy in addition to coal

The Cottbus-based energy company LEAG is expanding its portfolio to include a solar energy project. Together with juwi AG, it is developing a photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of 10 MW in Lower Lusatia that is scheduled to go into operation in 2019.

AI still lacking in transport management

Although most logisticians hold transport management to be one of their company’s core competencies, a study conducted by BearingPoint shows that companies are not sufficiently equipped with the corresponding resources and digital tools.

Plant manufacturers neglect digital competence

Although by international standards German plant construction is still too often based on traditional, technology-oriented business models, in many other areas plant manufacturers are well equipped for the future.

Magdeburg gets its own artificial intelligence center

Researchers and companies work together in the “Center for Industrial Intelligence” (CII) to develop AI methods and algorithms, focusing on their concrete application in industry.

Sepro and Universal Robots announce partnership

The French Sepro Group and Universal Robots from Denmark are now working together in collaborative robotics and industrial automation: the Danish company plans to integrate Sepro’s control platform into their products going forward.

Rotterdam sends a smart container on a tour

Equipped with a multitude of different sensors, a container will collect data during a voyage around the world; the data will then flow into the digital image of the port of Rotterdam. Tests will also be conducted to determine whether containers are suitable for energy generation.

Energy companies hope for windfall

Although the German energy industry sees great potential in further digitization, it has not yet exploited the opportunities. This is the conclusion reached by the “Digitalcheck” study.

Artificial intelligence expected to better protect consumers

The German Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV) plans to promote the development of artificial intelligence (AI) applications for consumer protection purposes. Proposals from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular will receive financial support.

Bavaria invests 40 million in lightweight construction research

A new funding program is intended to support manufacturing and development projects for digitization and lightweight construction in the aerospace industry. The funding aims to strengthen Augsburg as a business location.

Human and machine work more efficiently together

Human or robotic teams - which are superior? The answer is mixed teams! They are more efficient and cause fewer accidents, as a research team found out based on a practical simulation of production logistics.

A map provides an overview of AI research

The platform “Learning Systems” has published a map showing the research and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in Germany. The map is interactive, continuously updated and provides an overview of AI research.

When the robot knocks on your door

Automobile manufacturer Ford is set to test whether parcels can be delivered without human employees: autonomous delivery vans do the driving while a robot plays the role of the parcel carrier.

The German Federal Government takes AI seriously

An additional 500 million euros will be invested in the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI) in 2019. The priorities are research, transfer, social dialogue, technology assessment, qualification and data availability.

Economy of the common good

Immediately after our interview Michael Hetzer welcomes a group of school pupils from the local region. They want to find out more about Elobau and discuss climate protection and entrepreneurship with the company’s managing director. They submitted their questions in advance, although Hetzer had not requested them to do so. But now he is surprised: “One question is: do sustainability and economic success rule each other out?” Michael Hetzer shakes his head in disbelief.

The new family business

Corporations are calling for more of a start-up culture. It’s a familiar headline and reading it makes Frederik Brantner of Magazino smile. Five years after founding an intralogistics start-up, Brantner is now working on introducing a more process-driven approach in his company.

LinkedIn for Industry

A quick farewell photo, a fresh glass of water – “non-carbonated, please”, a new contact, press representatives, interviews – Hala Zeine’s schedule at HANNOVER MESSE is already very busy on the first day of the show. She welcomes her guests in a simple meeting room with a view of the SAP stand, and she has just 30 minutes to outline the supply chain of the future.

German start-ups running out of money

Although many established industrial companies cooperate with start-ups in order to promote their own digitization, they are in danger of running out of money: a clear majority is complaining about too little capital.

Accenture opens Industry X.0 innovation center

Tradition meets modernity: the international consulting firm Accenture has opened an innovation center on the site of the former coal mine Zeche Zollverein

Many companies contemplate building their own 5G networks

The idea of building proprietary 5G networks seems widespread in the industrial sector. According to a non-representative survey by TÜV Rheinland, almost half of such companies are flirting with the idea.

Hesse orders 27 fuel cell trains

Commuter trains in the Taunus region are to be powered by fuel cells in the future. They are expected to start running in the fall of 2022.

This company has Industry 4.0 all taped up

AMOHR, the specialist in "smart textiles", has created AMOTAPE® Fast-E-Tex. This partially elastic flat conductive tape allows users - for the first time - to attach electronic components in an automated process and fix them securely in place without applying tensile stress to points of contact.

Concerns about autonomous driving diminish

Although consumer confidence in driverless cars is still low, acceptance values are expected to double in the next five years. There is also an increasing willingness to spend more money on technology.

Startups to get a DIN standard

Sounds like a joke but it’s not: a consortium of consultants, companies and scientists is planning to introduce a DIN standard for startups. Its main purpose is to make it easier for banks and investors to assess startups.

Franconians plan to recycle fiber-reinforced plastics

The demand for fiber-reinforced plastics is increasing, above all in the automotive and aircraft-construction sectors. A team at the TH Nuremberg now aims to develop a recycling process.

AI training data creates new job market

Leveraging AI to train autonomous vehicles for practical usage requires the preparation of considerable data volumes. This task is often carried out by crowdworkers - under very different working conditions.

Heat map provides information on cybersecurity abroad

Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection are essential for companies. The consulting firm Deloitte and the Federation of German Industries (BDI) have compiled the relevant regulations for selected world regions

Corporate culture is what counts

Companies can only fully exploit the solution potential of digital technologies by also adapting their internal structures. A current research project would like to show how this can work.

Power buoys in the Rhine deliver energy

A German company installs 16 power generating buoys in the Rhine near Bingen. They exploit the river’s high flow velocity there.

The first truck without a cab takes to the road in Sweden

Einride’s driverless, electrically powered vehicle is already underway on public roads. It is transporting goods in an industrial zone in Sweden.

Germany leads the way in Europe with AI pilot projects

Although German companies are lagging behind their European competitors when it comes to integrating AI into their business processes, thanks to their leading position in pilot projects and a high willingness to invest, there is room for hope regarding future development.

Audi tests battery installation virtually

Training sessions in a virtual environment help optimally prepare technicians for the use of new technologies. Audi uses this method to train its employees how to handle the batteries in electric cars.

Siemens leverages edge computing to save maintenance costs

Edge computing brings data analysis closer to smart manufacturing facilities. The approach has the potential to prevent machine downtimes and thus save costs.

German industry benefits from solar growth

The rising trend toward private solar-power facilities in Germany has produced an all-time high for business. Yet strong demand from abroad is also driving the growth of German photovoltaic suppliers.

Sunny days ahead for photovoltaics around the globe

SolarPower Europe, the European solar industry association, expects a dramatic, global rise in demand for photovoltaic technology. In 2019, the growth in Europe alone is expected to reach 80%.

Project imagines new forms of work

The “New Work” project analyzes the success factors for new models of working and illustrates some examples within Germany. In a complementary study, the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO is investigating management processes.

Mondas IoT platform wins two awards in one stroke

Mondas GmbH, a spin-off of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, has recently been honored twice for its Internet of Things (IoT) platform, receiving the Freiburg Innovation Award and Smarter E Award.

First degree program for “Master IT Craftsman” launched

In September 2019, the first students will begin their course of undergraduate studies in IT business management at the Hochschule Weserbergland (HSW), a technical college. The program is intended for students who are already employed. It’s the first program of its kind – offering a degree known as “Master IT Craftsman” – to be initiated in Germany.

Fraunhofer updates on AI in production

What opportunities does artificial intelligence (AI) present for manufacturers, and how to take advantage of them? The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO is offering companies a general overview of the possible areas of application

German family-owned companies need Europe

The intra-European market is the most important export region for medium-sized businesses in Germany. This conclusion is borne out by statistics from the Institut für Mittelstandsforschung (IfM) Bonn.

Munich buses get better mileage with AI

The public transportation authority of Munich is now collaborating with a start-up to future-proof its buses through artificial intelligence (AI). This process employs a significantly larger quantity of data than previous activities.

Mobile translation now cloud-free as well

Google has released an updated version of its ML Kit. These new programming interfaces permit text translation using smartphones even without connecting to the cloud.

Cybercrime costs companies millions

Every year, cybercrime costs all German companies an average of 11.5 million euros. Costs are particularly high for energy providers, according to a report by consultancy Accenture.

Industry is divided on 5G

When it comes to 5G, German industrial companies seem to have differing opinions, as a representative survey by Bitkom, a digital association, has shown: 49% of companies rank the availability of the forthcoming mobile communications standard as important to them – 49%, on the other hand, do not.

Print yourself a new break-even point for small series!

The HP Jet Fusion 3D 4200 Printer and the 3D Processing Station with Fast Cooling being exhibited together at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 are set to deliver 3D printing at record speeds while also slashing costs.

Demand for robots on the rise - except in the UK

Brexit - if it ever comes - is already casting a long shadow. As reported by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the number of newly installed industrial robots in the UK fell by 3% last year.

Seven European islands scheduled to become sustainable

This project can safely be referred to as a “lighthouse project”: INSULAE aims to promote a low-carbon and clean energy supply on seven European islands. Authorities, utility companies and researchers have joined forces for this purpose.

Climate protection is not (yet) scaring industry away

Climate protection is dear to German industry - and expensive. Very few companies covered by the EU Emissions Trading Scheme have relocated their production to countries outside the EU to date.

Innovative power supply units triple service life

Power supply units are susceptible to faults, whether on notebooks and washing machines or on charging stations for electric cars. Researchers from Karlsruhe have developed a new and sturdier type of film capacitor.

Shell is now also building fast-charging stations in Germany

The oil company plans to set up 50 charging stations with 100 charging points at its German gas stations. The utility company EnBW supplies the green electricity.

New tests show the potential of platooning

Platooning is considered a forward-looking model for the logistics industry. The Fresenius University of Applied Sciences has now published encouraging results after seven months of testing in real-life operation.

Networked home storage systems stabilize the power grid

The two companies TenneT and sonnen have successfully completed a unique project: they had tested whether networked home storage systems for photovoltaic electricity are suited to compensating for fluctuations in the energy supply.

HP and Siemens want to print faster together

Siemens is integrating US manufacturer HP's Jet Fusion 5200 3D printing system into its digital enterprise offering. The two companies are planning to leverage this cooperative project to help their industrial customers manufacture components more efficiently.

Cobots should take hold with more feeling

In order to ensure occupational safety, collaborations between man and machine require robots to gain improved tactile skills. That is the goal of a project initiated by TU Ilmenau.

Startups are desperately looking for employees

Staff are flooding out of innovative young companies in Germany. Around three quarters of them want to increase the size of their team this year, but many positions remain empty in three out of five startup businesses.

XXL products need more Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 approaches are not being used enough in the manufacture of particularly large goods. Relevant solutions are also available for the production of ships or wind farms.

The system sorts the trash (almost) completely autonomously

Europe’s most advanced sorting system for lightweight packaging has begun work in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It separates garbage according to 14 different material types and is largely automated.

Battery casings for e-cars are becoming lighter and more powerful

Prototypes made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic not only save weight, but also provide batteries with considerably more protection against heat and cold. The batteries can also be replaced more quickly.

AI is often viewed critically in business

According to a recent survey, German companies are predominantly using artificial intelligence (AI) for press optimization purposes. On the other hand, innovation and disruption only a play a minor role in their usage.

Together, automobile manufacturers are less alone

Automobile manufacturers rely increasingly upon cooperations, platform economy and open ecosystems. Consulting company Sopra Steria reports that this should result in new innovations being developed more quickly and standards being brought forward faster.

Data protection also applies in autonomous vehicles

The German government has stated that the stipulations of the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are critical for the integrity of data saved during autonomous driving. This must be taken into account as vehicles are being developed.

Top German companies are becoming increasingly innovative

Top German companies are becoming increasingly innovative

Automation really makes 3D printing worthwhile

Aerotec, Daimler and Eos have all reached the decision to reduce the costs for the additive manufacturing of metal components in automobile and aircraft construction by up to 50%. The key to success is fully automated production processes.

For speedier switching, get that memory in shape!

The CompActive project at the Institute for Composite Materials (IVW) is working on developing and manufacturing active components and systems based on shape-memory alloys.

Digital Transformation Executive Conference kicks off Digital Industry

Digital Industry USA premiers from 11 to 12 September 2019 at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville, Kentucky. One day before, the Digital Transformation Executive Conference takes place at the Frazier History Museum, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that the digitalization of industry creates.

Ingolstadt offers the first Bachelor’s degree in AI

The increasing importance of automated industrial production boosts the importance of artificial intelligence. The Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences is now implementing the first Bachelor’s degree in AI in Germany.

A new battery storage system intelligently networks devices

A battery storage system with artificial intelligence is set to enable commercial, industrial and utility companies to directly interconnect e-vehicles, photovoltaic systems and other devices. They can be analyzed and controlled via a cloud.

Companies can train low-skilled workers better

Sophisticated automation technologies and the use of robots result in the elimination of jobs in production halls, especially for workers without formal qualifications. A new approach to training them has been now been tested.

Botnets in the IoT can cause power failures

In its current semi-annual report, the Reporting and Analysis Center for Information Assurance (MELANI) in Switzerland reports on the potential danger of a power failure caused by networked household appliances.

AI sensors improve power grid utilization

The PrognoNetz project brings together science and industry to work on sensor networks that improve the utilization of overhead power lines. Meteorological data is collected and evaluated directly on the power lines.

Shark skin boosts wind power

Following the wind tunnel test, the practical test has now also shown that the riblet coating developed by a Fraunhofer Institute can improve the performance of wind turbines.

Cloud and blockchain kick-start logistics

What sort of opportunities do blockchain and cloud computing offer logistics and supply chain management? The innovation radar recently published by the competence network Logistics.NRW and the consulting firm TMG takes a close look at this question.

What counts is the digital core

Although for most companies, there is no way around digitizing the entire life cycle of a product at some point, a study by BearingPoint shows that companies are often no more ready to do so than in the past.

Digital freight forwarder FreightHub to expand its services

FreightHub, which stakes its claim as “Europe’s first digital freight forwarder”, has welcomed new investors and raised USD$ 30 million in a financing round. The company plans to use the money to expand its service portfolio.

A new insulating material for lightweight car manufacturing

A new insulating material, designed specifically to meet the requirements of the automotive industry, is set to further advance lightweight construction. The new material combines good acoustic insulation and low weight.

Scientists present motorless pumps

Researchers from Saarland University present valves and pumps made from coated silicone film that can be controlled electrically, without the need for a motor.

Business game helps SMEs understand Industry 4.0

A new business game aims to teach managers the advantages of automated digital production. The objective is to impart basic decision-making skills for the development of an Industry 4.0 strategy.

Startups are increasingly competitors, rather than partners

The trend for digitalizing companies through partnerships with startups appears to be on the decline: Not only do established firms often not have the time to build up a partnership, they now also fear competition from young, innovative companies.

E.ON an offshore pioneer in Japan

The Dusseldorf-based energy corporation has joined forces with a Japanese company to drive the expansion of offshore wind turbines in the country.

Accenture expands its capacities in the automotive sector

The global service provider acquires Munich-based technology consultancy Zielpuls. Examples of Zielpuls’ work include an automated car parking system and an architecture for driver assistance systems.

Researchers are developing flexible electronics

Flexible electronics from 3D printers have come within close reach thanks to a new concept from a team of researchers. Now, however, conventional additive manufacturing needs to keep pace with these developments.

Networked production riddled with vulnerabilities

In a world of networked production, hacker attacks can impact entire industries. Yet, as the findings of a worldwide study by TÜV Rheinland show, many companies are not sufficiently prepared for cyberattacks and virus infections.

500 specialists research materials for lightweight construction

Airbus and other companies open ECOMAT, a new research center near Bremen airport dedicated to the development of new materials.

Electrical, mechatronics engineers earn high salaries

The high demand for electrical and mechatronics engineers is also reflected in their high salaries. According to a wage report by Stepstone, they are the best earners amongst all technicians.

Firing up technology transfer with fuel cells!

At HANNOVER MESSE 2019, researchers from TU Chemnitz presented the prototype of a highly promising component for hydrogen fuel cells that they have developed with fellow members of Saxony's first InnoTeam "HZwo".

Bosch produces mobile fuel cells for commercial vehicles

In collaboration with a Swedish company, the automotive supplier wants to start series production of polymer electrolyte cells and sell licenses for them from the year 2022.

Automakers lag behind digitization

The automotive industry has apparently seen the writing on the wall: digitization. Still, most companies seem to not yet have realized the true extent of the sea change. These are the findings of a new study.

IBM and fortiss want to develop reliable algorithms

The IT company and the research institute of the Free State of Bavaria are to collaborate in Munich on the development of new AI software, notably for critical applications.

Ransomware attacks increasingly severe

The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) warns that companies face the prospect of particularly nefarious ransom attacks: Systems are illicitly hacked with the goal of demanding immense ransoms.

Good IT freelancers treated like Messi or Ronaldo

Companies rely heavily on IT freelancers for their digitization projects. This group will grow in the future, as a survey by ManpowerGroup shows. The best freelancers in the industry are even managed by their own agents.

How to make it work with robots

Humans and robots are increasingly working side-by-side in production. A 74-page report states recommendations for these interactions based on ethical and social criteria. For good reason: If the employees do not accept their presence, little will function.

New industry policy for hardening plants

Health risks may be associated with the heat treatment of metals. For the first time, the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) has collected work safety measures for hardening plants in a new industry policy.

High-speed microscope simplifies quality control

A new microscope from the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT can digitalize samples at up to 500 frames per second and be combined with gesture control for simpler operation.

3D printing soon to be used in series production

With the IDAM project, partners from science and industry want to integrate metallic 3D printing in an industrialized, highly automated series process in the automotive sector.

Future executives to learn how to lead

What must STEM students learn to become responsible leaders? A joint project, funded by the Carl Zeiss Foundation, is developing a curriculum on leadership ethics.

Fraunhofer offers ‘New Mobility Manager’ qualification

The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO is offering a practical training course for professionals. The program is part of the Ministry of Economic Affairs for Baden-Wurttemberg’s mobility initiative for SMEs.

Sono Motors builds solar car Sion in Sweden

The first series production solar electric vehicle (SEV) from Munich-based mobility provider Sono Motors is to be manufactured at a former Saab plant in Trollhättan, western Sweden, from mid-2020.

Swiss buildings have potential for 67 TWh of solar power

According to a study by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), Swiss houses and factories could generate 67 billion KWh of solar power per year. That is 110% of Switzerland’s current power consumption.

Daimler teams up with battery specialists Sila Nano

As part of its R&D activities, Daimler AG has acquired a minority stake in US battery materials specialists Sila Nanotechnologies Inc. (Sila Nano).

Cracking the Da Vinci Code for a digital future

At the recent HANNOVER MESSE 2019, the ICT specialists at VINCI Energies invited visitors to experience the innovative smart industry solutions from Axians and Actemium in the Group's largest showcase to date.

in-GmbH manages an entire model factory remotely

To demonstrate the potential for added value that fully automated production has to offer, the integrated business process specialist has shown how a factory can be controlled remotely, by linking an IoT platform with machine-learning technologies.

New AI platform digitalizing the mid-sized sector

German mid-size companies are to shift away from being pure product manufacturers and become digital service providers, with the help of a new platform for artificial intelligence (AI).

Industry seeks new approaches for improved energy efficiency

The Power Engineering Society (ETG), a member of the German Commission for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE), has created a new department. It is intended to be a place to find solutions for producing and storing electrical energy.

Stuttgart-based sheet-metal platform receives additional capital

Stuttgart-based start-up Laserhub has won a seven-figure investment from venture capitalists. The company seeks to establish itself as an intelligent marketplace for the sheet-metal industry.

Seven key criteria establish data quality

To work efficiently, ERP systems, digitalized processes, and self-learning machines based on AI technology require high-quality data. The ERP experts from proALPHA have revealed what makes for good data quality.

Mechanical engineers get a digital update

The “General Mechanical Engineering” degree course at Aalen University is becoming more digital: the idea is to give graduates Industry 4.0 ideas for their start into working life.

Supply chain optimization often gets bogged down in practice

Although companies have recognized the potential of optimized supply chains, many of the projects nevertheless fail because they underestimate the complexity of the task. This is demonstrated in the latest edition of the Hermes barometer.

EU strengthens rights for workers on call

The European Parliament has agreed on new minimum rights for employees of the so-called gig economy. They include a probationary period limited to six months as well as compulsory and free training.

Innovating in a vacuum

The latest additions to the HiLobe Roots pump range from Pfeiffer Vacuum made their trade fair debut at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 alongside new gas analysis systems.

Digitization not (yet) paying off for many

The consulting firm Sopra Steria calls it the “digitization blues”: according to a survey of 354 top managers, executives and specialists, only one in four companies has increased its turnover thanks to digitization.

KIT tests the sectoral coupling of energy systems

The SEKO research project is being launched at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). It is intended to test the interconnection of electricity, heat, mobility or material energy sources in the real laboratory.

Consortium wants to produce green kerosene

A science and industry consortium is planning to build an industrial power-to-liquid (PtL) plant. It aims to supply sustainable synthetic hydrocarbons for the production of climate-neutral aviation fuels.

Engineers and computer scientists have excellent prospects

The figures of the current Ingenieurmonitor (engineer monitor) published by the Association of German engineers (VDI) indicate that the job market for engineers and computer scientists attained a new employment record in the 4th quarter of 2018.

Vestas Wind Systems participates in SOWITEC

By acquiring a minority stake in the German company, Vestas intends to broaden its position as a response to changing customer requirements arising from the energy transition. The Danes were also given an option to take over the entire company.

Austria organizes cyberattack simulation games

Cyberattacks can threaten the very existence of industrial companies. The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO) now wants to playfully prepare companies for such attacks: with an attack exercise in real time.

Microtechnology sector looking good

The majority of European companies increased their turnover and employee figures in 2018. Most of them are optimistic about the future.

AI takes over object recognition for autonomous driving

Autonomous driving is only possible if vehicles can “recognize” their environment. Now the labeling process for this is faster and more efficient thanks to a startup using artificial intelligence (AI).

Online: the Baltic Sea’s biggest wind farm

The Arkona offshore wind farm, around 35 km from Rügen, was opened by German chancellor Angela Merkel on April 16. At full load, its turbines can generate enough electricity for 400,000 households.

Digitization intensifies competition

Going digital comes with increased competitive pressure. The reason? Companies from the IT sector and other industries becoming direct competitors.

Bitkom provides businesses with targeted information about AI

A total of 28 technologies from the field of artificial intelligence (AI) are presented by Bitkom on a dedicated website where the trade association evaluates their commercial benefits, potential applications and possible hurdles.

SMEs should assess their digital maturity

Far from as absurd as it sounds, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany can now determine their maturity when it comes to digitization. This will help them take suitable steps towards further digital transformation.

More solar and wind power than ever

Over 49 billion kWh of Germany’s electricity came from wind turbines and photovoltaic systems in the first quarter of 2019. This new record figure is partly due to unusual weather conditions.

IT experts desperately wanted

The electrical and IT industry remains optimistic for 2019/20 – but is sorely lacking in engineers and IT experts. Industry association the VDE (Association for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies) fears that this could weaken the electrical industry’s still robust economy.

Smarter controller manages maintenance virtually on its own

From Omron comes a complex controller that enables comprehensive predictive maintenance of machinery through artificial intelligence (AI). No additional programming is necessary.

Unlock the potential of this small but mighty innovation!

The safety technology experts at EUCHNER attended HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to unveil their latest development - the CTM transponder-coded door locking mechanism. This innovative solution has been specially designed for use on small and lightweight doors and flaps.

Augmented reality records defects on components

Quickly and easily marking production flaws directly on components is now possible with QSelect, an innovation based on augmented reality (AR) and developed by the Fraunhofer Institute of Optronics, System Technologies and Image Exploitation (IOSB).

Hydrogen infrastructure to be created in Emsland

A project by the GET H2 initiative, with Emsland as its proposed location, is intended to span the entire value chain – from hydrogen generation through to transport and use.

Mood among automotive suppliers increasingly positive

Not all news from automotive suppliers recently has been good news; a study has, however, now found that the mood is improving, as more and more companies start to reap the benefits of digitalization and electrification.

New gripper molds quickly and easily

The ‘Polygreifer’ (poly-gripper), designed by the University of Kassel and its spin-off eta|opt, can grip and lift workpieces made from various materials. It is particularly suitable for use on industrial production lines.

TÜV wants access to security-relevant IoT software

The Internet of Things and networked production bring new opportunities, but also new risks. The TÜV Association therefore calls for access to security-relevant software to be given to testing organizations.

Add-on expertise!

Weidmüller has developed a new machine learning tool to provide analytics solutions for traditional mechanical engineers and machinery operators - no special IT expertise required.

Smart ideas take Innovators’ Pitch 2019 by storm

The three startups StudySmarter from Munich, AIPARK from Braunschweig, and doks.innovation from Kassel are the winners of the Innovators’ Pitch 2019.

Schaeffler and Mitsubishi expand their partnership

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and Schaeffler Technologies have announced a global strategic partnership, based on the e-F@ctory Alliance network set up by Mitsubishi.

Germany only ‘middling’ when it comes to blockchain

When it comes to blockchain technology, the German industry believes it is lagging behind other countries. This was the finding of a survey conducted by German digital association Bitkom.

New glass-free solar modules a third lighter

A Chinese company has unveiled solar modules without a glass layer. Since these modules are around two thirds lighter, they can also be used on roofs that cannot take heavy loads, and, thanks to adhesive technology, they are also easy to install.

Cybercriminals strike with lightning speed

In an experiment, British software developer Sophos has tested how quickly and how often hackers strike worldwide: The first attack on a honeypot cloud server hit after less than a minute.

Large enterprises set up an alliance for Industry 4.0

The companies involved – from the mechanical engineering, automation, and software industries – want to create an open ecosystem for the digital transformation of industrial plants. The alliance is open to all companies.

AI soon to play a part in corporate planning

This is the prediction of German digital association Bitkom. In a position paper, the association presents existing examples of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in enterprise resource planning.

Making waves!

FESTO made a splash at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 with exhibits such as the BionicFinWave - an autonomous underwater robot boasting an intelligent combination of many different components.

Recognition can be worth more than money

Innovation is a key element of Industry 4.0. Although many companies offer financial rewards to stimulate their employees’ creativity, personal gestures are often more effective.

Industry urgently needs to improve its cybersecurity

Industrial cybersecurity is lagging years behind general IT security. This is the conclusion reached by TÜV Rheinland in its Cyber Security Trends 2019 forecasts. This is apparently a result of indifference and low investments.

A photovoltaic system that floats on a quarry pond

Germany's largest floating photovoltaic plant is being built in the western region of Baden-Württemberg. It will supply the connected gravel plant with electricity in the future.

SMEs consider themselves at the bottom of the pack

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) see themselves as lagging behind in terms of digitization. Large companies and corporate groups in Germany give themselves a much more positive rating.

3D printing set to take over mass production

3D printing has already established a niche in the industrial production of prototypes and small series. It is now expected to get a new boost by connecting to automated production in digital factories.

Management is often not quite up to snuff

Although many companies already have the technologies required for automated and networked production, management often lacks a deeper understanding of how to develop new concepts and strategies.

Mechanical engineering sets the pace for digitization

The mechanical engineering industry is one of the leading networked production pioneers. This also applies to medium-sized companies, because many are open to the idea of using machine-to-machine communication technologies.

A firm grip on innovation

The Zimmer Group seized the perfect opportunity at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to showcase the first robotic flange based on the new wireless IO-Link standard. This impressive solution eliminates the need for complex cabling on mechatronic grippers.

Older employees are often the pillars of their company

Experience and willingness to take on responsibility are two qualities that personnel managers particularly value in older employees. This is the finding of the “Trend Report - Digitization and the Labor Market 2019” study.

An AI research center is being built in Ingolstadt

Two dozen scientists at the Technical University of Ingolstadt will work on application-oriented artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning research in the future. The many partners involved should ensure that the research is broadly based.

TÜV Süd offers a production readiness index

TÜV Süd has developed an analysis tool to support manufacturing industry companies with digital transformation. It is based on the Reference Architecture Model for Industry (RAMI) 4.0 and has already been tested in Singapore.

Intelligent automation is often an isolated solution

Expectations of intelligent automation solutions may be high, but the implementation of these solutions needs to be improved. As revealed by a survey conducted by management consultants at KPMG in collaboration with HFS Research, many companies still lack a company-wide strategy.

Mechanical engineering industry booming – for now...

German mechanical engineering companies have been doing well: Record sales are providing scope for investment in digital transformation, reports consulting firm EY. However, the latest figures from the German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) call for attention.

Small companies falling behind

Although more and more German SMEs are investing in digital technologies, the investments made by small companies remain low. This is the finding of a representative analysis by KfW Research.

Levitating to new standards!

Beckhoff Automation is looking to set new benchmarks in drive technology with Xplaner, a transportation system based on electromagnetic levitation.

BMW and Microsoft planning Open Manufacturing Platform

The carmaker and software company want to leverage Microsoft Azure to interconnect machines, robots, and transport systems via the new platform, which will also be open to other companies.

Researchers want to make self-driving cars safer

In extreme cases, the quality of the artificial intelligence in self-driving cars can be a matter of life or death. Scientists have now developed a new method to minimize errors in object detection systems.

Collaborative engineering needs digital twins

To facilitate and improve collaborative developments across companies, the digital twin model needs to be refined. This is the finding of a study conducted on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi).

Cyber gangsters also target startups

Anyone who believes that cybercriminals target only large industrial enterprises is wrong: Startups are also often hit by cyberattacks, as the Tec Report from the German Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE) has found.

German industry increasingly employing AI

According to a new study from German digital association Bitkom, when it comes to Industry 4.0, 12% of German companies are already leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.

Vodafone forges ahead with networking the IoT

To also enable integration of machines and sensors in the network in remote areas, Vodafone is activating Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) on 2,000 additional cell towers. The provider wants to achieve 95% network coverage by September.

Metal-based 3D printing records fastest growth

In additive manufacturing, metal-based processes recorded the highest growth rates last year. The number of providers of industrial printing systems also continues to rise.

Poor IT security afflicts one in two companies

Around half of IT decision makers in German companies do not believe that their company is adequately protected against cyberattacks; many are also not clear on the potential threats.

SMEs increasingly leveraging big data and cloud computing

How digitally advanced are SMEs? The IfM Bonn has analyzed the use of information and communication technologies by SMEs in Germany.

Associations aim to promote Germany as an AI hub

Industry associations eco - Association of the Internet Industry and the German AI Association have entered into a strategic partnership, with the aim of strengthening Germany as a hub for AI and introducing an AI seal of quality.

Companies want digital transport documents

According to a survey conducted by market researchers at Bitkom Research, the vast majority of transport companies would love to do away with the red tape and instead work with legally valid digital transport documents.

Car sensor technology with vision - and (ultra)sound

The Automotive Development Kit from TOPOSENS, unveiled at HANNOVER MESSE 2019, aims to help automobile manufacturers unlock the potential of 3D ultrasound-based near-field vision - both for current series-production vehicles and for future autonomous models.

Siemens partners with Chinese corporation SPIC

Siemens and State Power Investment Corporation Limited (SPIC) have signed a comprehensive Strategic Partnership Framework Agreement. The partners will cooperate on project execution and Gas-to-Power projects.

Energy efficiency pays off

The BMWi has published its final report on the evaluation and progress of the Energy Efficiency Fund. The measures funded helped significantly reduce both pollutant emissions and energy costs.

EnBW plans to acquire wind and solar company Valeco

In acquiring the French wind and solar farm operatEnBW will Wind- und Solarunternehmen Valeco übernehmenor, EnBW seeks in particular to increase its wind power capacity. French law, however, prescribes that the company’s staff council must first agree to the takeover.

Wind energy soars to record highs

In March 2019, more than a third of electricity in Germany was generated by wind turbines; on some days, up to 70% came from renewable energy sources.

Helmholtz investing millions in AI research

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are to be researched in six new units. The central unit in Munich will focus on machine learning in health research and bioinformatics, among other fields.

The automotive industry is frustrated

Artificial intelligence is obviously making life difficult for the automotive industry, with the shortage of digital and technological skills and complexity of existing IT proving an obstacle to its implementation.

Advanced robotics helps combat shortage of workers

The Boston Consulting Group estimates that advanced robotics could replace 300,000 jobs in German industry by 2025. This may at first sound like bad news, but given the current shortage of skilled workers, for many companies it is good news.

Cost of renewable energy continues to fall

An analysis from Bloomberg shows that in particular the price of photovoltaic solar has plunged in the last year, while wind energy and battery storage are also becoming cheaper.

Blockchain controls autonomous machines

The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology FIT sees potential for the blockchain in both logistics and production: as a cooperation tool for autonomous machines and product supply.

Bosch wants to make billions with Industry 4.0

The technology corporation began systematically connecting manufacturing and logistics in 2012. And its investments are starting to pay off.

University of Tübingen provides training in machine learning

This coming winter semester, Tübingen will be the first German university to offer a Master’s program in machine learning. The four-semester course will be taught in English.

LEDs light the way home for autonomous transporters

A new system leverages light to navigate driverless transportation vehicles through industrial buildings, with positioning via LED lights.

VW and Northvolt form European Battery Union

European partners join forces in the European Battery Union (EBU) consortium to drive battery research throughout Europe. The new consortium will be led by the Volkswagen Group and Swedish battery producer Northvolt.

German electrical and electronic exports holding their own

The German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (ZVEI) has published the latest figures: In contrast to incoming orders, production, and revenue, exports from the German electrical and electronic industry saw robust growth in January 2019.

Deutsche Messe becomes international partner of energy tradeshow SETA

SETA runs from 10 to 12 October 2019 in Bangkok

SMEs investing more in process innovations

Over the last few years, SMEs have been increasingly improving their technological processes through innovations. In some cases, though, this has led to a shortage of staff and funds for other innovations.

All eyes on Sweden

The recently restructured Asea Brown Boveri, better known as ABB AG, honored its Swedish roots at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 with a whole range of innovative solutions at the Sweden Co-Lab Pavilion, hosted by this year's Partner Country.

Wind turbine rotors to rotate more reliably

Wind turbine rotor blade bearings are subjected to tremendous force. A consortium of research institutes and industry partners therefore plans to develop more robust versions of these central units.

Longest sea bridge in the world equipped with German sensors

The Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, inaugurated last year, is equipped with sensors from Upper Bavaria, to help rapidly assess the effects of potential ship collisions.

University of Wuppertal conducts research for automotive suppliers

The university has set up a research center for machine learning and data analytics. Automotive suppliers based in the region in particular stand to benefit from this new research center.

IT incubator in the Saarland offers startups assistance

A Germany-wide program at Saarland University aims to help startups develop their ideas to a point that they are marketable or industrial companies acquire licenses for them. However, they have to come to Saarland to do so.

Quality seal for AI to reinforce ethical values

The German AI Association, which currently boasts over 160 member companies and experts, has presented a quality seal for artificial intelligence. The seal is intended to be a hallmark for the responsible approach to artificial intelligence by German companies.

Radar sensors see where others are blind

Radar sensors work with precision even under conditions of poor visibility: They can also penetrate smoke and fog and open up new application fields for industrial sensor systems, aimed at saving energy and resources.

Global network of industrial academies

The Deutsche Messe Technology Academy Co. (GmbH) is expanding its commitment to worldwide knowledge transfer in the field of innovative production technologies: In cooperation with the Volkswagen Group Academy, it is establishing the new Digital Reality Academy.

Team players driving forward technology

Leading industrial companies seized the perfect opportunity at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to launch the Open Industry 4.0 Alliance. Their aim is to co-develop an open ecosystem to advance the digital transformation of industrial plants.

New procedure reduces water consumption in the mining industry

Vast quantities of water are needed to extract mineral ores. A new digital system now aims to make the extraction process more efficient and to reduce the consumption of fresh water.

VW, Amazon, and Siemens cooperate on cloud

Volkswagen and Amazon Web Services want to join forces to develop the Volkswagen Industrial Cloud, which will combine data from all machines in all Volkswagen facilities. Siemens will be responsible for ensuring the facilities are efficiently networked.

AI sensor suit helps keep workers healthy

A personal trainer capable of checking workers’ bodies for poor movement and posture and providing tips on how to work in a healthier way – how great would that be? Innovative sensor suits equipped with artificial intelligence are set to make this vision a reality.

Hackers go unnoticed for 199 days

According to TÜV Rheinland, this is how long on average it takes companies to realize that they have fallen victim to a cyberattack. Security experts say that preventative protection alone is no longer enough.

Power-to-gas plants get a boost

According to Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik’s power-to-gas (PtG) database, the installed electrical power of PtG plants in Germany has more than doubled since 2014.

Modular sensors facilitate digitalization

Smart IIoT sensors are to be combined on a modular basis, thereby facilitating digitalization for companies. Minimal configuration and data analysis work minimizes the inherent complexity.

Trend for mobile applications

“Mobile or not at all” – one in twelve candidates only apply to companies if they can do so on their mobile device. This is the finding of the “Recruiting Trends 2019” survey from job portal Monster.

A box of tricks from Berlin!

Remote maintenance with data glasses, real-time communication and seamless data management - infinIT & HÄUSLER have combined all these elements in their brand-new service concept, D MORITS, an out-of-the-box solution that made its debut at HANNOVER MESSE 2019.

Economy drives at car manufacturers putting the brakes on...

The digital transformation poses challenges for the automotive industry. And now it looks like the fears of many HR experts are coming true: Recent saving measures are thwarting agility and the transformation of management culture.

Digital twins entering mainstream use

According to a recent survey, more and more companies are establishing digital twins of their facilities. 2019 could mark a turning point for digital twins.

Logistics companies spoilt for track and trace choice

Barcode and blockchain, RFID and RTLS: Today, track and trace technologies offer logistics providers a multitude of options. A study has presented the advantages and disadvantages of various systems for the sector.

Now or never!

Exhibiting under the banner of "4.0 NOW", SICK AG showed visitors to HANNOVER MESSE 2019 exactly how production and logistics can be effectively networked - and how data transparency makes it possible to harness opportunities to add value in real time.

Drones transport spare parts

Several tests and pilot projects are currently taking place in Germany to test the deployment of drones on plant premises and in factory buildings.

HANNOVER MESSE 2019: "Driver of industrial transformation"

Make digital transformation tangible – that was what HANNOVER MESSE 2019 promised. After five days, the organizers announced a positive result. Artificial intelligence in industry and robotics, the potential of the new 5G mobile communications standard for industrial applications, lightweight design, and the future of work in a time of increasing digitalization were this year's most important topics at the world’s leading tradeshow for industrial technology.

US overtakes Germany as a production location

A study by consultancy Ingenics AG places the US ahead of Germany in its overall assessment of production locations, while Great Britain ranks third.

Connect to the cloud for clarity!

The STAUFF Group's exhibits at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 include a new assembly head for processing pipework with very low bending radii and an innovative cloud connection designed to simplify the management of parameter sets.

A big birthday and a top team!

"100 years - one team" is the centenary slogan at WISKA Hoppmann GmbH. The family company has timed the climax of its celebrations to coincide with HANNOVER MESSE 2019, where it is exhibiting as a supplier for industry, the skilled trades and shipbuilding.

Five partners - one pair of wires!

Weidmüller, Phoenix Contact, Reichle & De-Massari, Belden and Fluke Networks are appearing together at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to showcase their technology partnership for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE).

Berlin startups have much to offer industry

26 of the 443 startups founded in Berlin in 2018 were industrial companies. A startup detector has revealed the top five to watch.

Drones increase solar energy efficiency

Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras are being designed to fly over photovoltaic systems and look for indications of a drop in performance.

Ironman light

Ottobock is primarily known around the world for outstanding medical technology. The company now has its sights set on the world of production and maintenance, and is at HANNOVER MESSE 2019 to showcase its new passive exoskeleton, Paexo, designed to help users carry out strenuous tasks.

Always good to go

...thanks to the green 'sharing points' located at ARAL filling stations in Berlin. Germany's largest gas station operator is taking part in an experiment conducted by Berlin-based start-up GreenPack to trial a new eco-friendly energy infrastructure.

The height of innovation

Seeking to impress visitors at HANNOVER MESSE 2019, RK Rose+Krieger GmbH is presenting four innovations in connecting, linear and profile technology. One of its key exhibits is the completely revamped RK Easywork workstation system.

Industry offers money and training to attract employees

Virtually all branches of industry are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. Companies are focusing above all on offering attractive salaries, training young talent and financing further training in order to fend off the competition.