Erfurt_Production and manufacturing are facing a profound transformation – driven by digital technologies. A key role is played by the “Digital Twin”. This is a virtual representation of a real object; it can be something simple like a workpiece, but also something very complex like a system, a building, or even a production process. How this technology can revolutionize industry is the focus of the 17th Erfurt Technology Dialogue, which will take place on Wednesday, August 27, at the COMCENTER Brühl in Erfurt.
"Industrial production systems are a focus of our Thuringian innovation strategy,” says Mario Suckert, State Secretary at the Thuringian Ministry of Economic Affairs. The topic of "Digital Twins” as an innovative approach to recording and controlling production processes is taking up an ever larger space there. According to a BITKOM survey, almost two-thirds of German industrial companies consider Digital Twins indispensable in order to remain competitive. "We will therefore have to pay even greater attention to this topic in the future,” said the State Secretary. However, while large companies are already benefiting from this technological approach, smaller companies in particular still need targeted support in modernizing their infrastructures. "Here, as a state, we offer support with our technology funding program FTI-Thuringia – or very practically also with the Thuringian Center for Mechanical Engineering, which supports companies as an innovation partner in the introduction of new production technologies.”
It is no coincidence that the topic of “Digital Twin” was chosen for this year’s Erfurt Technology Dialogue, as this event format offers a platform for discussing current, forward-looking research fields and innovations. The event is organized by the Erfurt Research and Industrial Center (FIZ), LEG, and the Erfurt Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), and is under the patronage of the Thuringian Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Lord Mayor of the state capital Erfurt. “Innovation is a key driver for Thuringia’s economic and technological success in the future,” says LEG Managing Director Andreas Krey. “Only through dialogue and collaboration can innovation potential be optimally developed, and the Erfurt Technology Dialogue provides a suitable framework for this. We are delighted to have secured Prof. Bergs, a leading expert on the topic of ‘Digital Twin’ for the event – his lecture will provide information on an exciting technology field and at the same time offer impulses for the subsequent discussion.”
The evening will be moderated by Dr. Gabriel Kittler, Chairman of the Board of the Research and Industrial Center Erfurt e.V. (FIZ) and Managing Director of X-FAB at the Erfurt site. Welcome addresses will be given by Mario Suckert, Andreas Krey, and Erfurt's Mayor Andreas Horn. "I am delighted that the Thuringian state capital is once again serving as a platform for the exchange between science, business, and politics," says Andreas Horn. "The Technology Dialogue is an ideal opportunity to discuss forward-looking developments, forge new partnerships, and actively help shape the transformation of industry together. I wish all participants an inspiring event and exciting discussions."
Dr. Cornelia Haase-Lerch, Chief Executive Officer of the Erfurt Chamber of Commerce and Industry, adds: “The Erfurt Technology Dialogue combines scientific expertise with the practical challenges faced by companies. The digital twin opens up new opportunities for efficiency, quality, and sustainability in production. Such impulses are crucial to ensure that our businesses continue to play a leading role in international competition in the future.“
The guest speaker Prof. Thomas Bergs is a university professor at the renowned Manufacturing Technology Institute – MTI of RWTH Aachen University and heads the Chair of Manufacturing Technology there. At the same time, he is a member of the Board of Directors at the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT. He began his Career at Fraunhofer IPT, where he worked from 2000 as head of laser technology and the business field “Aachen Tool and Die Making” and took over the position of managing senior engineer from 2001. In 2018, he was appointed university professor at RWTH Aachen University. With the founding of the Manufacturing Technology Institute (MTI) at RWTH Aachen University in 2024, he is setting new impulses for the future of manufacturing.
Parallel to Prof. Bergs' lecture, members of the Erfurt-based FIZ e. V., universities, and institutions present interesting projects on the topic of "Digital Twins“. During a tour, all guests learn about the latest developments and innovations; the event concludes with a get-together offering diverse opportunities for in-depth discussions.
Further information and program:
www.erfurter-technologiedialog.de
