The Profile 2019/2020 (english) by AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH

THE PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS 2019 — 2020

EMPOWERING INNOVATION. THE AIT AUSTRIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY IS THE STRONG STRATEGIC PARTNER FOR COMPA‑ NIES THAT WANT TO SUCCESS FULLY OPERATE ON THE MARKETS OF THE FUTURE.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

INTRO

CONTENTS 04 Mission Statement 05 Preface AIT as an Indispensable Factor for Austria‘s Future Prosperity By Hannes Androsch, Chairman of the AIT Supervisory Board 06 Centers/Research/At a Glance Focus of the Centers AIT Focal Points 08 Management/Topics/Focus “There are no borders to protect us” Talk with AIT MDs Anton Plimon and Wolfgang Knoll 12 Research/Topics/Focus Innovating Infrastructure Systems AIT as a Developer of New Technologies 14 Diversity/Teams/People We are AIT AIT is Composed of Ingenious Partners. 16 O wner Representatives/Preface Only Excellent Research Results Lead to Outstanding Market Success By Andreas Reichhardt, Federal Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) 17 O wner Representatives/Preface AIT – Bridge Builder and Key Partner of Innovative Industry By Isabella Meran-Waldstein, Federation of Austrian Industries 18 Research/Infrastructure/Laboratories Research at the Highest Level Products, Services and Solutions for Tomorrow Are Being Created at AIT. 24 Technology/Research/Papers Committed to scientific excellence Current Top Papers Show the High Research Competence at AIT 30 Research/Competitions/Awards Curtain Call A Small Selection of Recent Awards for AIT Researchers.

38 Decarbonisation/Energy/Industry Center for Energy The Center for Energy develops solutions for sustainable energy supply and supports industrial companies as well as infrastructure operators in their transformation processes. 40 Traffic/Transport/Mobility Center for Mobility Systems The experts of the Center for Mobility Systems are developing interdisciplinary, smart solutions for the mobility of tomorrow. 42 Digitisation/Security/Safety Center for Digital Safety & Security Modern information and communication technologies (ICT) and systems are being developed here, for the protection of critical infrastructures. 44 Health/Bioresources/Medicine Center for Health & Bioresources The AIT Center for Health & Bioresources is researching essential challenges of demographic change and resource scarcity. 46 Materials Research/Transport/Lightweight Construction Center for Low-Emission Transport The experts of the Center for Low-Emission Transport are researching efficient, intelligent and safe vehicle components with a focus on electrification and lightweight construction. 48 V isualization/Quality Control/Production Center for Vision, Automation & Control The Center is developing methods and technologies that span the entire chain from sensor development via data collection and analysis and intelligent algorithms all the way to decision making. 50 User Acceptance/Technology/Innovation processes Center for Technology Experience The Center for Technology Experience deals w ith fundamental questions concerning the interaction between humans and technology. Innovation processes thus can be measured.

32 Employees/Human Resources/Career Imagine. Engage. Achieve. At AIT, Careers Become Reality.

52 Networks/RTI Policy/Foresight Center for Innovation Systems & Policy As a central hub in the RTI system and partner to public administration, companies, universities and research institutes, the Center plays an important role in Foresight Processes.

34 Agenda Setting/Congresses/Events At the Cutting Edge of the Near Future AIT is a recognized host and co-organizer on inter national market and knowledge platforms.

54 Stay in Contact Media, Social Channels and AIT Channels. AIT is a sought-after partner of the national and international RTI community on many channels.

MISSION STATEMENT •

The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is Austria‘s largest non-university research institution, holds a leading position in innovation and plays a key role at European level as the research and technology institution which deals with the key infrastructure issues of the future

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Eight specialized Centers are conducting research on the key infrastructure topics of the future in the areas of Energy, Mobility Systems, Low-Emission Transport, Health & Bioresources, Digital Safety & Security, Vision, Automation & Control und Technology Experience. These scientific research areas are supplemented by competence in the field of Innovation Systems & Policy.

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As national and international nodal point at the interface between science and industry, AIT opens the door to innovation thanks to its scientific-technological expertise, market experience, close customer relationship and an excellent research infrastructure.

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As Ingenious Partner to industry and public authorities, AIT plays a central advisory role with regard to future challenges and the development of disruptive technologies. In doing so, AIT pursues a research approach that is based on a comprehensive system-level knowledge. Because it is not only about understanding systems, but about actively designing them.

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Around 1,370 employees throughout Austria are conducting research into the development of those tools, technologies and solutions for the Austrian economy that will keep it fit for the future, true to our mottoTomorrow Today.

SUPERVISORY BOARD/PREFACE

AIT AS AN INDISPENSABLE FACTOR FOR AUSTRIA’S FUTURE PROSPERITY After ten years of development and growth work, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology can present outstanding results for 2018. To a large part, this is thanks to constantly increasing orders. It also becomes evident that the establishment of the Center structure as well as the majority stake in PROFACTOR have been important and correct steps in the further expansion path of Austria‘s largest non-university Research and Technology Organization (RTO). Future development therefore stands on a sound foundation. This is very important in the light of a rapidly changing, globalized economy. Austria has to tackle tasks that will be of crucial importance for the future of our country. The innovation momentum has slowed in recent years, as is very clearly shown by different studies and rankings. Additional impulses are required to get Austria back on track for growth in the innovation competition, not to mention the noble and yet all the more important objective of taking our country into the group of Innovation Leaders.

PHOTO: PHOTO SIMONIS

We must finally succeed in catching up with the top group of innovative countries. Examples such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, Israel or Singapore show that this is not necessarily a question of the size of a country. On the contrary: These four countries show that it is often smaller nations that can boast the best minds, the best ideas and the best technologies. A future-oriented innovation and research policy must commit itself to the objective of following the example of the most successful ones while at the same time enabling one‘s own, specific innovation landscape. In this context, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is making a significant contribution. Where the great future questions of humanity are concerned, such as digitisation, decarbonisation, robotics, Industry 4.0, Big Data, security, smart cities and the mobility of tomorrow, the approximately 1,370 experts at AIT are already laying the foundation for the innovations of tomorrow. With the co-founding of the Complexity Science Hub Vienna, AIT is able to analyse questions of an increasingly complex world comprehensively and thereby also break entirely new ground in research and decision-making. The increased cooperation in the field of Artificial Intelligence is another building block for the reinforced scientific foundation of AIT. Launched with the significant participation of AIT, the Silicon Austria Labs initiative has the potential to sustainably strengthen Austria‘s position in the international microelectronics industry. The continuous expansion of international partnerships will not only increase

the visibility of AIT at a European, but also at a global level. However, AIT will not only be more involved in the national knowledge system in the future, it will also help improve the entire system thanks to its unique position. All of this is possible thanks to an outstanding team that acts independently, embraces a commitment for the future and thus makes its name as a genuine „Ingenious Partner“ for industry and the public sector. Economic performance, jobs, our competitive strength, and the quality of our business location in an intact environment all reap the rewards from the right answers and solutions for the infrastructure issues of tomorrow. Our society needs these answers more urgently than ever before. This will bring benefits for our economic performance, and it will secure jobs. In the long term, society too will benefit from this expertise. HANNES ANDROSCH, President of the AIT Supervisory Board

FOCUS OF THE CENTERS Energy

Health & Bioresources

• Sustainable Thermal Energy Systems • Electric Energy Systems • Digital Resilient Cities (DRC) • Photovoltaic Systems

• • • •

Bioresources Molecular Diagnostics Biomedical Systems Digital Health Information Systems

Mobility Systems

Low-Emission Transport

• Transportation Infrastructure Technologies • Dynamic Transportation Systems

• Electric Drive Technologies • Light Metals Technologies Ranshofen

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

CENTERS/RESEARCH/AT A GLANCE

Digital Safety & Security

Vision, Automation & Control

• Security & Communication Technologies • Visual Surveillance and Insight • Smart Sensor Solutions • Dependable Systems Engineering • Information Management

• High-Performance Image Processing • Autonomous Systems • Complex Dynamical Systems

Technology Experience

Innovation Systems & Policy

• Capturing / Measuring Experience • Future Interface Paradigms • Experience Oriented Thinking

• Digital Innovation • Foresight & Institutional Change • Policies for Change

“THERE ARE NO BORDERS TO PROTECT US” The global economy is undergoing a transformation process. Digitisation, decarbonisation, intelligent production and assistance systems – in all these partly disruptive topic fields, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology acts as an innovative and strategic partner for companies that want to successfully operate on the markets of the future. In a conversation, AIT Managing Directors Anton Plimon and Wolfgang Knoll (l.) outline future scenarios – showing why AIT is indispensable as a partner for industry, society and politics. The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology carries the claim „Tomorrow Today“ in its brand identity. What is behind it? Who benefits from this positioning? ANTON PLIMON: We are facing adamant global competition. There are no borders to protect us. New ecosystems and supply chains are emerging, the momentum is huge, the speed enormous. We must provide the right answers now and set a course that will put us in a safe competitive position. And as Austria‘s largest research and technology organization, we are the strong research partner for industry and the public sector here. If you have the wrong answers or provide answers too late, you lose. That‘s because today, we‘re facing serious and above all rapid changes in industry, society and politics. With all the opportunities offered by digitisation, we are also facing new challenges that

we still need to find appropriate answers for. Similarly, the goal of decarbonisation – abandoning the use of carbonaceous energy sources – will lead to far-reaching changes in our way of life. As a relatively small but prosperous country, Austria must position itself with its strengths in this environment. And the success of an industrial location as well as the quality of life of its citizens depend to a large extent on an efficient and effective infrastructure. These systemic changes require new technology solutions while at the same time opening up business opportunities for innovative companies over the next decades. WOLFGANG KNOLL: Against this background, AIT makes it possible to realise innovative infrastructure solutions and already today provides the technologies, methods, and tools for the infrastructure of tomorrow. Many technoloPROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

MANAGEMENT/TOPICS/FOCUS

The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is Austria’s largest non-university research facility and, among the European research institutions, the specialist for the key infrastructure topics of the future.

HIGHLIGHTS INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT 2018 • New AIT flagship location in Vienna • Expansion location TFZ Seibersdorf • Takeover of 51 % of PROFACTOR/Upper Austria

gies for the successful digitisation of the next generation of industrial production are already mature or marketable in various areas. The immediate task is to realize the direct and long-term benefits that digitisation creates for companies. This also means creating new values for the economy and society. Let‘s think about the networked industry of tomorrow: It does not just produce goods, it also ensures that these products remain in data contact with the producer, even after being purchased by a consumer.

PHOTO: Peter Rigaud/Shotview

Which topics are currently the major driving forces of the economy and society in your view and how does AIT position itself here? AP: It is the big topics that people are confronted with. At AIT, we focus on the infrastructure topics that pose huge challenges to us and require disruptive technologies. The focus here is on new developments in Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Industrial Data, Cyber Security, Robotics, Micro/Nano Electronics, Industry 4.0, 5G, and Machine Learning. The issue here is the urgently needed decarbonisation of traffic, logistics or energy. The topics are social and socio-political issues which concern housing, urbanization, and the demands on the corresponding infrastructures of tomorrow. Answers concerning these developments and related issues must be provided together with and for the public sector and for industry. AIT plays an crucial role here. Let‘s consider the ever-increasing volume of data: Those who do not turn data into usable information will lose their competitive edge. But those who cannot protect

their data cannot protect their business either. At AIT, for example, we are developing smart grids for the energy sector, which help to better balance the different production capacities of renewable energies and to distribute surplus energy where it is needed at each moment. The objective is an integrated energy system. WK: We see the boundaries between industries increasingly disappear. A case in point: Classical mechanical engineering meets innovative IT – creating completely new business models. Machine Learning opens up new perspectives in terms of increasing efficiency and yield in production through to developing completely new manufacturing concepts. Software developments rapidly drive these advances forward. We are witnessing tremendous advances in sensor technology. Thus new application scenarios emerge, such as the prevention of failures through predictive maintenance. Highly sensitive and intelligent sensors know when maintenance is due or when components are at the end of their life cycle. Maintenance work can thus be done in a timely and production-optimized manner. Such issues concern industrial companies, and thus AIT as well. What role do humans play in this future? AP: Humans are and will remain the central value-creation factor. They are the focus of all products and services. People are the only consumers in this world. And: At no time in history didn‘t humans produce something. Of course, we neither want to nor are allowed to research and develop for the love of technology alone. Innovations must be sustainable and always put people first. Every service, every product focuses on people. The vast amounts of data make it possible to customize products, to personalize medicine. And entirely new forms of cooperation between man and machine, technology and creativity that also require completely new and customized training programmes emerge. Skilled workers become experts in dealing with virtual or augmented reality – for example, by using data glasses or intensively using a tablet or smartphone as the central control unit in production. But undoubtedly, the number of industrial robots will also increase massively – by around 40 % to 1.7 million industrial robots worldwide in the next few years according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). WK: The importance of Artificial Intelligence will increase as well. AI will make robots better, more powerful and more flexible. Robots will be able to make decisions and help us live safer, for example on the road. Robots will turn into valuable household assistants operated by voice control. Robots will also provide valuable services in medical diagnostics and in the early detection of diseases. Mobility

is changing, examples for this are autonomous vehicles or driverless transport vehicles, but also robots that assume autonomous tasks, e.g. in warehouse logistics or ordering. The result will be an entirely new, enormous flexibility in production. And yet, the benefit for people remains paramount – we must not forget this. To what extent does AIT contribute to creating not only smart but also sustainable solutions in these future developments? AP: The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology was founded to provide national and international companies with long-term support in their research efforts as an Ingenious Partner. We have continuously expanded our sphere of activity in recent years while doing so. We are an increasingly important partner for SMEs or for start-ups as well, some of which we initiate ourselves through spin-offs. This is important because it enables us to also transfer research and development into smaller company sizes. In a publication in 2018, we showed that only a very small number of small companies manage to join the group of large researchintensive players. We want to change that within the realms of our possibilities and actively seek partnership with small and medium-sized enterprises interested in research and development. WK: AIT is Austria‘s largest applied research organization (RTO) and plays a leading role on the global stage in many infrastructure issues. This makes AIT a powerful development partner for industry and a top employer in the international scientific scene. Our highly qualified researchers provide the best possible services for our clients. AIT researches and develops for innovations. That‘s how we will directly improve people‘s lives. Intelligent energy systems, age-appropriate self-determined life, security in data networks and the public sphere, ergonomic man-machine interfaces and mobility concepts of the future – these are only a few examples of the topics in which the approximately 1,370 AIT employees take a decisive part in developing. The business location Austria benefits from this knowledge. The Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology is the majority owner of AIT. Does this influence the research activities of AIT? AP: Future-oriented research and technology policy is a key factor for our future business location. The Federal Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) creates the framework for Austria‘s infrastructure from rail to road, in the water and in the air through to telecommunications and technology development. On this path, AIT is an important and valuable player who plays a leading role in

the league of European RTOs. With our focal topics in the areas of digitisation, decarbonisation, safety and security, e-health, and mobility, we are an important trailblazer for the future and at the same time a partner of the Federal Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) for developing new solutions in key infrastructure topics. This subsequently contributes to the international commercialization of innovations from Austria. AIT thus plays an important role in the positive development of the business location Austria. WK: One has to be aware that the most important background basis for all new developments – apart from the purely technological side – is a country‘s infrastructure. It represents the lifeblood of a society and is the backbone of competitiveness, prosperity, and welfare. Intelligent solutions require fast and secure network infrastructures, whether in telecommunications or in the energy industry. That is why the experts at AIT conduct research on the infrastructure topics of the future in an interdisciplinary and very application-oriented manner. In addition to our task of strengthening the industrial base of our country in times of Industry 4.0, we also see it as our mission to act as a strong Ingenious Partner of the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) and industry. To what extent does industry, the second owner of AIT, benefit from your research? AP: In order to prevail in international competition, Europe must rely on its strengths, further expand key technologies and focus on major strategic topics. Only in this way can we place ourselves sustainably at the cutting edge of global R&D. As AIT, we play a key role here. We support the Austrian industrial companies in their digital transformation and with our contract research, we are very close to the special corporate and market needs of the future. Austrian industry has AIT as its system partner who understands their concerns and challenges from the same perspective and develops innovative approaches, products and services together with the companies. We thus also lay an important basis for strengthening our export companies. Because as an export-oriented industrialized country, Austria must place its bets on innovation. Only in this way can domestic companies be successful in the ever-intensifying international competition. We offer our clients the opportunity to focus on the daily business and the short-term future while the most competent talents of Europe are working on the tools and technologies of tomorrow to be able to realize the solutions for the day after tomorrow. This requires excellent knowledge of the current state of research and industry needs. Our clients benefit from the in-depth expertise of our teams. PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

MANAGEMENT/TOPICS/FOCUS

Wolfgang Knoll: „We are making an essential contribution to

Anton Plimon: „As Ingenious Partners, we work on the

successfully establishing Austria and its partners in the European

tools and technologies of tomorrow in order to deliver the

innovation system and positioning them in such a way that they are

solutions of the day after tomorrow. Austria’s industry

fit for the future.“

benefits from this.“

WK: At the interface between companies, market access, science and research, AIT thus makes a decisive contribution to the attractiveness and continuous development of Austria as a business and industrial location. In this context, we have also increasingly worked on positioning ourselves with a more international stance. Today, AIT is not only a player in the international research system, but is also breaking new ground in innovation policy thanks to its expertise, which is repeatedly demonstrated in European cooperation projects. Our researchers thus make a significant contribution to overcoming the risks to the economy and to building new markets. As part of our „Empowering Innovation“ strategy, we not only want to support our clients, but also our politicians in founding new business models through innovation. AIT thus is the link between applied research and the successful commercial exploitation of future technologies. We thereby strengthen the business location Austria.

figures for the current research framework programme on its website, with the figures referring to the corresponding legal entities. With 62.8 million euros of third-party funding per April 2019, AIT is among the TOP 3 in the Austrian ranking, along with the Vienna University of Technology and the University of Vienna. If you also consider those parts of AIT which are run as subsidiaries, then AIT even boasts a third-party funding value of 66.5 million euros.

What role does AIT play in the European research and innovation system today?

PHOTOS: Peter Rigaud/Shotview

AP: Since its inception in 2009, AIT has sought to evolve from a regional player to a player on a European scale. The achievement of this goal can be easily demonstrated using the key figures for the year 2018. The economic KPIs show an excellent trend in 2018, a year that must be regarded as exceptional: All goals were achieved, in particular in contract research where an increase of 45.43 million euros to 52.13 million euros could be achieved – an increase of 14.7 percent. Our position in Europe has also been strengthened: The European Commission publishes the relevant key

WK: I am personally very pleased about the very special scientific success of a young researcher at AIT: By winning an ERC Starting Grant with his work in the field of „coherent homodyne communication“, Bernhard Schrenk does more than just addressing a strategically important and up-to-date future field in the field of optical communication. In doing so, he also defines the scientific level of quality we want to operate on in the future.

INNOVATING INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEMS Sectoral Global influencing Factors

Sectoral Structure and Stakeholders

Innovation needs of

Public Stakeholders Infrastructure Providers Lead Industry RDI-Policy

Industry, Service Provider, SME & Start-ups

System Scenari

Providing Scenarios an sectoral Knowledge, technologic

Enabling innovative Services & Business

R&D fo Gener Goo

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

RESEARCH/TOPICS/FOCUS

Development Technologies KET

Policy targets e.g. Grand Challenges

Infrastructure Systems

ios & Strategies

nd Strategies based on , System Needs and cal Options

or Next ration ods

System Knowledge Scientific Methods Technology Expertise

Advanced Technologies & Processes

Research Infrastructure

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

DIVERSITY/TEAMS/PEOPLE

WE ARE AIT The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is Austria’s largest non-university research facility. Our approximately 1,370 Ingenious Partners conduct research all over Austria – in particular at the main locations in Vienna Giefinggasse, Seibersdorf, Wr. Neustadt, Tulln, Ranshofen und Graz – on the development of those tools, technologies, and solutions for Austria‘s economy which will keep them fit for the future according to our principle „Tomorrow Today“. Together we are AIT.

driving. In numerous projects, we are working on the design of future living spaces („Smart City“) with a focus on resource conservation and location development. We are stepping up our efforts in the area of Cyber Security and are playing in the global “Champions League” here. With our broadband initiative, we are enabling the use of highspeed Internet even in more remote regions, thus not only supporting the emergence of new business models, but also working to reduce the digital divide between cities and countryside in a targeted manner. We are very successful in supporting space missions and are among the leading market players in Europe – and even on a global scale. A few months ago we made a clear statement on the subject of storage research. The Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology is a trailblazer for the „Silicon Austria Labs“ which will break completely new ground in interdisciplinary research in the field of electronics-based systems. These examples of technological excellence from Austria are intended to illustrate how diverse the topics significantly supported and promoted by the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) are.

The name AIT stands for excellent research. This sentence aptly sums up the work of the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology. AIT is Austria‘s largest non-university research institution and has been able to position itself very strongly also on a European level in recent years. Whether as a partner of large research projects, as a submitter of numerous patents, as a training centre for young researchers, as a career perspective for people with clear goals, or as the leading institute of our country in the field of applied industrial research – AIT shapes the research and innovation landscape like no other RTO. This is of such importance because, as you know, AIT is majority owned by the Republic, as represented by the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT). It is thus an essential factor when it comes to the question of the effectiveness of publicly funded research. This should and must contribute to the strengthening and expansion of innovation systems. The task of management and owners is to create structures and framework conditions that enable excellence in research. After all, only excellent results will ultimately lead to outstanding market success. The strong, global and above all extremely rapid changes and upheavals in the international context of research, technology and innovation policy pose considerable challenges for the future development of Austria as a business location. We have reached globally leading positions in many topic areas of major future technologies such as Cyber Security, Smart Energy, Smart Living, Industry 4.0 or the Mobility of Tomorrow. We have test tracks for autonomous

The BMVIT has set itself the objective of strengthening Austria‘s position in technological competition. This will also require a continuous scrutiny of the accuracy of public R&D expenditures as well as an examination of the entire portfolio of funding and programmes currently available in view of upcoming challenges and business location policy objectives. Our objective is to speed up the innovation system so as to be able to keep up with the enormous development speeds of other countries. To achieve this, we need to take measures in the areas of education and R&D – above all in the development of research infrastructure. The Silicon Austria initiative of our company in the field of microelectronics is a good example for the consolidation, expansion and new creation of research capacities. It is key for a small country like Austria to focus on models and business processes where we can develop a special international position and top skills. As a reliable partner and active force, the BMVIT will continue to assume a strong and self-confident role in the Austrian innovation and technology system. As an „Ingenious Partner“, trailblazer, innovation driver, and research partner, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology plays a central role in this environment. ANDREAS REICHHARDT, Federal Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology

PHOTO: BMVIT/Zinner

ONLY EXCELLENT RESULTS LEAD TO OUTSTANDING MARKET SUCCESS

OWNER REPRESENTATIVES/PREFACE

AIT – BRIDGE BUILDER AND KEY PARTNER OF INNOVATIVE INDUSTRY Research, technology, and innovation underpin our prosperity. In order to secure it, Austria must become one of the top 3 RTI locations in Europe in the medium term. What would our world look like without the technological developments of the last decades? How would we move around today, what would be the state of our medical care, how would we live, how would we obtain information or communicate over long distances? Such a world would most likely be unrecognizable. For much of what shapes our modern life in the professional or private areas is determined by technology today. But only rarely do we become aware of the research and development that is actually behind these achievements. Be it life-saving medicines, smartphones, skyscrapers or cars – know-how from Austria flows into all of these.

PHOTO: IV/Karl Michalski

Research, technology, and innovation not only shape our modern life, they also secure our prosperity. Austria‘s companies are the main pillars of the innovation system, accounting for two-thirds of the country‘s RTI activities. The Austrian leading companies in particular are the „RTI engines“ with a pacemaker function for their collaboration environment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), universities, start-ups and non-university research institutions. For Austria‘s industry, an attractive business location is characterized in particular by ambitiously designed R&D financing, where the research premium as USP and the direct research funding are crucial to success. It likewise requires excellent, internationally visible partner in science, strong bridges along the entire value chain, and innovative minds. Intensive RTI networking is crucial for Austria at the European and international level as well. The opportunities offered by digitisation and new technologies must be harnessed in a bold manner for new solutions, innovative products and disruptive business models. Above all, however, this requires a strong commitment to the research and technology location on the part of politics in order to suitably position Austria in an increasingly challenging international environment. This commitment must be reflected in an ambitious 2030 RTI strategy, whose development now officially starts. Only if the strategy includes clear and courageous objectives, if a growth path in the planned research funding law sets out the course towards a 4 % R&D quota, can Austria develop the necessary momentum and growing output it needs to be among the top 3 RTI locations in Europe. The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology has been a reliable key partner for the Austrian industry for many years

in the RTI field. AIT takes on the important role of networker for science and industry. As a technology radar, AIT reflects new international technology trends into the Austrian industry at an early stage and becomes a driver of innovation in risky projects, also on the European and global playing field. AIT is also a major player where training is concerned and assumes the role of a talent forge in the area of science and technology. Through its diverse bridging functions between science and industry, research and education, but also between Austria, Europe, and the international level, AIT is an indispensable lead partner of the innovative Austrian industry. ISABELLA MERAN-WALDSTEIN, Head of Research, Technology & Innovation at the Federation of Austrian Industries

RESEARCH AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL The AIT laboratories use state-of-the-art technology and form an essential foundation for applied research and development. Here, the foundations for products, services, and solutions for tomorrow are laid, tested and brought to series production readiness.

CIL: PLATFORM FOR THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT OF THE FUTURE

Our biomaterials lab is equipped with facilities for the characterization of biomaterials as well as the development and application of innovative and validatable process technologies like “Equal Channel Angular Pressing – ECAP”. This process technology significantly improves the mechanical properties of metallic biomaterials such as hardness, compressive strength, tensile strength and fatigue life. Furthermore, equipment for corrosion measurements of degradable implant materials is available. In our state of the art laser lab we develop synthesis of high purity colloidal nanoparticles for biofunctionalisation. This enables the development of antibacterial and antithrombotic coatings as well as of admixtures as a nanoadditive with polymeric nanocomposites with local ion- or drug-release properties.

ACCREDITED VIBRATION MEASUREMENTS Vibration-intensive construction activities (demolition work, blasting, soil compaction, etc.), but also impacts from road and rail traffic, often cause considerable vibrations in buildings. AIT has the necessary know-how to record and evaluate the effects of vibrations and is certified according to ISO 9001 in this area.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: AIT/LKR/Lang, AIT/Mürling, AIT

BIOMATERIALS CHARACTERIZATION LABORATORY

The City Intelligence Lab (CIL) is an interactive digital platform to explore new forms and technologies for urban development of the future. Key technologies such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence are used to create complex simulations and parametric designs.

RESEARCH/INFRASTRUCTURE/LABORATORIES

BATTERY MATERIALS LAB As one of a few institutes in Europe, AIT can comprehensively cover battery material research with specially equipped labs for the synthesis, analysis, and validation of materials in small-sized cells. The focus is on the development of high-voltage cathodes and high-energy anode materials as well as on the optimisation of known cell chemistries. Thermal and elemental or crystal structure analyses are possible as well as specific surface determinations by means of gas adsorption. The characterisation of materials from industry and project partners completes the offer.

PHOTONICS & QUANTUM COMMUNICATION LAB The lab deals with technologies based on the use of light. The research activities range from photonically integrated circuits at the chip level via system integration of optical and electronic components all the way to the demonstration of new applications in telecommunications, quantum optics and sensor technology.

RADIO FREQUENCY LAB HORIZONTAL CONTINUOUS CASTING PLANT The semi-industrial pilot plant for horizontal continuous casting of aluminium alloys with real-time control is used for the continuous production of tailor-made formats as well as special alloys in the field of welding wire production. AIT provides support in process technology for the production of high-quality, near-net shape formats suitable for direct further processing of the manufactured semi-finished product without intermediate steps (e.g. peeling) and offers a top infrastructure for extended casting trials.

Among other things, new methods are being analysed here to use the physical properties of optical and wireless communication media with regards to security issues. In the wireless field, we are developing e.g. novel communication techniques for 5G systems for highly Âreliable low-latency communication links. Cables may thus be replaced in production environments by wireless systems, or autonomous vehicles can be reliably connected.

MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS LABOR The lab of the Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics consists of two specialized units. The molecular biology lab is equipped for the detection and validation of biomarkers and assay development. All steps from cell culture to isolation, processing, detection, and quantification of various biomolecules (nucleic acids and proteins) from a wide variety of biological samples (tissue, blood and saliva) are feasible in this lab. Whereas the sensor lab is designed to establish biosensors and integrate them into highly sensitive point-of-care diagnostic systems. The focus here is on developing electrochemical, magnetic, and optical detection methods and on creating prototypes printed with “bio-inks”.

In the die casting process, the liquid casting metal (aluminium or magnesium alloys) is pressed into a steel mould by a piston at very high speed and under very high pressure. When cooled, the metal solidifies very quickly and the finished cast component can be removed after a short cooling time. This fully auto– mated pilot plant can be used on an industrial scale to produce highly complex die-cast components made from aluminium and magnesium materials. The goal is achieving holistic solutions, from first idea to production-ready component.

For customer inquiries, our Machine Vision Flexi Lab is available with a variety of components, such as cameras, lenses, lighting systems, but also automated transport systems. Test setups are developed here from these components in a short time to check the suitability of different solution ideas. This lab also carries out further research up to the development of prototypes which then must prove their suitability in the real industrial environment.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: AIT/LKR/Lang, AIT/Zinner, AIT

MACHINE VISION FLEXI-LAB COLD CHAMBER DIE CASTING MACHINE DAK1100-112

RESEARCH/INFRASTRUCTURE/LABORATORIES

AIRBORNE SOUND INSULATION, SOUND REFLECTION & SOUND DIFFRACTION As part of the transnational development of acoustic in-situ testing of noise protection walls, standards EN 1793-4, EN 1793-5 and EN 1793-6 have been developed to determine the relevant acoustic properties on site or in the lab. The three mentioned standards regulate the measurement of the sound diffraction at the upper edge, the measurement of the sound reflection at the noise protection wall and the airborne sound insulation, applying a holistic view. With extensive testing activities and collaboration in national and European standardisation bodies, AIT regularly demonstrates its high level of expertise.

ROADSTAR The driving lab „RoadSTAR“ records all the parameters of the road essential for the road operator or expert in a single crossing, without obstructing traffic flow. The examination of all traffic safety relevant condition characteristics takes place as part of the accreditation. This allows the independent examination of building contract provisions, e.g. at the time of acceptance or before the end of the warranty period. The parameters to be measured and analysed comprise e.g. the road surface grip, the macrotexture, the transverse flatness and the longitudinal flatness. Surface damage and cracks in the road surface are visually recorded. This increases the longevity of the road while at the same time increasing road safety.

SHOCK AND VIBRATION TESTING OF COMPONENTS The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology boasts many years of know-how as an independent ÖVE/ÖNORM EN ISO/IEC 17025 accredited test center for shock and vibration testing and environmental simulations. Items undergoing testing such as electronic and electrical parts, machinery and equipment as well as superstructures for vehicle components will be subjected to stress and tested using two electrodynamic shakers, possibly also in combination with a climate chamber. We advise our clients on the selection of test procedures, offer the competent and customer-oriented performance of the tests and issue accredited test certificates. Since 2018, shock tests up to 100 G have been possible using the shakers.

ENVIRONMENT NOISE, ROLLING NOISE AND PASSBY TESTING AND IMMISSION MEASUREMENTS

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE LAB The AIT TX Lab (Technology Experience Laboratory) is a flexible facility for various types of user research and demonstration activities in the lab area as well as for field trials. It provides a state-of-the-art framework for the implementation, documentation and analysis of requirements engineering, focus groups, workshops, usability, user experience and quality of experience studies as well as for the prototyping of advanced interaction designs and future concepts. The AIT experts explore specific factors such as different experience quality measurements, the creation of key technology area experiences and key application contexts, based on improved fundamental interaction thinking and dedicated methods and tools to help develop high-quality technology experiences. For this purpose, end users in the AIT TX Lab are heavily involved throughout the entire development process.

SMARTEST LABORATORY The AIT SmartEST Lab and High Power Laboratory are providing an outstanding medium and low-voltage lab infrastructure at the European level. They offer tailor-made testing methods for industrial developments. „Smart grids” can also be tested under real-life operation conditions. The expansion of the laboratories creates an efficient validation platform for manufacturers of DC components and DC systems, responding to the requirements of future energy systems, like photovoltaic plants, storage units or batteries for e-mobility.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: PichturePeopole, AIT/LKR/Lang, AIT/Lang, Matthias Silveri, AIT

This describes the measurement of sound pressure levels which are relevant for the assessment of environmental noise and includes the noise emissions from road and rail traffic. Our services: - Rolling noise measurements (CPX method) according to ISO 11819-2, - Pass-by testing (SPB method) according to ISO 11819-1.

RESEARCH/INFRASTRUCTURE/LABORATORIES

WIRE + ARC ADDITIVE ÂMANUFACTURING (WAAM) With WAAM, conventional standard welding equipment is adapted in such a way as to enable component production by direct metal deposition from welding wires with comparatively high build-up rates and theoretically unlimited component size. At the LKR, both standard aluminium and magnesium-based welding consumables and in-house manufactured special wires are processed. All light metal alloys produced by melt metallurgy can be processed in-house.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY & DNA BANK In addition to outdoor premises, modern glasshouses and plant breeding facilities, Tulln has a comprehensive lab infrastructure, featuring e.g. the molecular biology labs to develop genetic marker systems using state-of-the-art molecular technologies for individual research questions in the fields of genomics and transcriptomics, through to marker applications for various genotyping purposes and DNA fragment analysis based on various technologies: // KASP â&#x201E;˘// qPCR // genotyping by sequencing (e.g. RADseq) // micro-satellites (STRs / SSRs). The DNA database is a special highlight: High-throughput DNA extraction with liquid handling systems (ISO 9001:2008) for the development and application of customized DNA extraction protocols for various tissues and organisms, a centralized facility for long-term storage and biological material management.

CELL PRODUCTION AIT is one of the few research institutions worldwide that can cover the entire value chain from battery research to battery production under one roof. Thanks to a dry room and a state-of-theart research pilot line, the AIT experts are able to produce lithium-ion pouch cells with regard to industrially relevant processes. AIT thus bridges the gap between science and market application.

The transition to a sustainable energy system requires a high degree of flexibility in the supply systems for energy-intensive industrial processes. For that reason, an optimization was developed based on the model of a company in the paper industry. It is based on mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) for the cost-optimized operation of supply, conversion and thermal storage based on different electricity prices and the costs of CO2 emission certificates. This led to savings in operating costs and allowed the interaction between power consumption, thermal storage capacity and optimal operation. S. Panuschka, R. Hofmann (photo on the right): “Impact of thermal storage capacity, electricity and emission certificate costs on the optimal operation of an industrial energy system”; Energy Conversion and Management, 185 (2019), pp. 622–635.

COMMITTED TO SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of the tightest biological barriers in the human body. It prevents the permeation of substances from the blood into the brain, which might otherwise damage this sensitive organ. This accounts also for a wide variety of drugs. Because of this, scientists have been looking for ways to overcome the BBB in a targeted and regulated manner for a long time. A potential switch to open the BBB transiently has been discovered by an international team together with AIT Principal Scientist Winfried Neuhaus. In the journal Biomaterials, they reported a bacterial protein and modified it to open the barrier in a targeted manner. W. Neuhaus (photo), A. Piontek, J. Protze, M. Eichner, A. Mahringer, E. Subileau, I. Lee, J. Schulzke, G. Krause, J. Piontek: „Reversible opening of the blood-brain barrier by claudin-5-binding variants of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin‘s claudin-binding domain“; Biomaterials, 161 (2018), 161; pp. 129–143.

Current top papers show the high research competence at AIT.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

TECHNOLOGY/RESEARCH/PAPERS

PHOTOS: AIT/Zinner, r. hofmann, AIT, Rita Skof

The mobility of people originates from a demand for activities such as work, shopping, education, sports, etc. The huge amounts of data resulting from digitisation offer new opportunities for measuring traffic demand for infrastructure and services in the traffic and economic sectors as well as for problem diagnosis and future planning. AIT is developing technically sophisticated, efficient and data protection compliant methods for measuring traffic demand from a large amount of sensor data. A contribution to the Sussex-Huawei Locomotion Transportation (SHL) Challenge shows that AIT is at the forefront in the field of automatic traffic recognition from smartphone sensors, achieving rank 4 among 21 submissions. P. Widhalm (photo), M. Leodolter, N. Brändle: “Top In The Lab, Flop In The Field? Evaluation of a Sensor-Based Travel Activity Classifier With the SHL Dataset”; in: „Proceedings of the 2018 ACM International Joint Conference and 2018 International Sympo sium on Pervasive and Ubiquitous Computing and Wearable Computers (UbiComp ‚18)“, ACM, (2018)

This article presents a numerical approach to the transient simulation of ice accumulation and its impact on the performance of wind turbines. This approach is applied to the NREL 5 MW reference wind turbine to (i) predict its performance during and after an 8-hour icing event and (ii) to investigate the potential improvement in energy production as a result of different operating strategies. Compared to the basic strategy, a reduction of the turbine speed with a slight decrease in energy conversion during the icing event can improve performance by up to 6% after full operation is resumed. The developed workflow can be used to optimize the performance of wind turbines by taking into account environmental conditions, icing event duration, and performance after the icing event itself. A. Zanon (photo), M. De Gennaro, H. Kühnelt: „Wind energy harnessing of the NREL 5 MW reference wind turbine in icing conditions under different operational strategies“; https://doi.org/10.1016/ j.renene.2017.08.076.

Cryptographic protocols or two-party protocols provide protection against suspicious players. Such protocols can be formed from a basic primitive called forgetting. We experimentally present and demonstrate a quantum protocol for the oblivious transfer of optical continuous-variable systems and prove its safety in the noisy-storage model. In a proof-of-principle experiment, we demonstrate the proposed inattentive transmission protocol for different channel losses by using entangled two-mode crush states measured with balanced homodyne detection. Our work enables the implementation of arbitrary two-party quantum cryptography protocols with continuously variable communication systems. F. Furrer, T. Gehring, C. Schaffner, C. Pacher (photo), R. Schnabel, S. Wehner: Continuous-variable protocol for oblivious transfer in the noisy-storage model; Nature Communications volume 9, Article number: 1450 (2018); https://www.nature.com/ articles/s41467-018-03729-4.

Broadband communication based on wireless technology is rapidly reaching its limits when it comes to high data rates. Using commercially available light-emitting diodes, data rates in the multi-gigabit per second range can be alternatively achieved with visible light. Using highly efficient modulation schemes, AIT researchers demonstrate such „LiFi“ transmission for indoor applications with a capacity of up to 4.3 Gb/s, as well as the real-time transmission of high-resolution video. Even energy can be optically transmitted in this way to use the data receiver remotely powered in 1 Gb/s packet operation without local power supply. B. Schrenk (photo), M. Hofer, F. Laudenbach, H. Hübel, and T. Zemen, “Visible Light Multi-Gb/s Transmission Based on Resonant Cavity LED with Optical Energy Feed,” IEEE J. Sel. Areas of Comm., vol. 36, pp. 175-184, Jan. 2018.

Aluminium wrought alloys are classed as belonging to the 7000 series if they are alloyed with zinc, magnesium and often also copper. In automobile construction, the 7000 series is currently rarely used: The alloy class is “incompatible” with the processes involved in automobile construction and introducing new production methods is too expensive. At LKR, we are working to change this. Through fundamental and applied research, economical process chains are being developed that will allow the use of the 7000 series in automobile construction. Heat treatments known as “stabilisation” or “preaging” play a key role in these processes. These heat treatments can improve workability of the sheet, increase the final strength of the automotive parts, and reduce total heat treatment time. In many cases, this stabilisation can be carried out directly in the metal rolling plant, which is better equipped for it than the car manufacturer. Compared to classical process chains, both the sheet metal manufacturer and the automaker save time and energy. J. Österreicher (photo), G. Kirov, S. Gerstl, E. Mukeli, F. Grabner, M. Kumar (2018). Stabilization of 7xxx aluminium alloys. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 740, pp. 167-173

Interconnected autonomous vehicles and Industry 4.0 production scenarios require extremely reliable low-latency communication links. We present a hardware architecture and signal processing algorithms for a real-time geometry-based channel emulator that is needed for testing wireless control systems. We implement a subspace projection of the propagation path parameters to compress the time-variant channel impulse response. This allows a low data rate connection from the host computer that computes the geometry-based propagation paths to the software-defined radio unit that implements the convolution on a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). With this architecture, the complexity of the FPGA implementation becomes independent of the number of propagation paths. Our channel emulator is able to accurately emulate non-stationary fading channels with constantly changing path delays and Doppler shifts. M. Hofer (photo), Z. Xu, D. Vlastaras, B. Schrenk, D. Löschenbrand, F. Tufvesson and T. Zemen: Real- time geometry-based wireless channel emulation; IEEE Trans actions on Vehicular Technology, vol. 68, no. 2, pp. 1631 - 1645, Feb. 2019.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: AIT/Zinner, AIT/Mürling, Michael Bösendorfer, AIT/Lang

TECHNOLOGY/RESEARCH/PAPERS

This article aims at presenting the designing, prototyping and testing of a permanent magnet synchronous reluctance machine developed in the EU project SYRNEMO coordinated by AIT. The machine features ferrite instead of rare-earth based magnets, significantly decreasing its costs and enhancing its environmental life cycle performance. Moreover it does integrate the motor, the power electronics, and the air cooling, making it a perfect candidate for urban electric vehicles. The integrated drive delivers a torque of 133 Nm at 3,600 rpm and a power of 52.9 kW at 4,300 rpm, with a combined peak efficiency of the motor-inverter-cooling above 94%. SYRNEMO has been benchmarked with existing drives, resulting by far the best-in-class ferrite based e-drive of the year 2016. M. De Gennaro (photo), J. Jürgens, A. Zanon, J. Gragger, E. Schlemmer, A. Fricassè, L. Marengo, B. Ponick, E. Trancho Olabarri, J. Kinder, A. Cavallini, P. Mancinelli, M. Hernandez, M. Messagie: „Designing, prototyping and testing of a ferrite permanent magnet assisted synchronous reluctance machine for hybrid and electric vehicles applications“; https://doi.org/10.1016/ j.seta.2018.12.002.

The development of ICT allows civil society to self-organize to a new extent in its response to extreme situations. This emergence is an important factor in the immediate management of the situation, but the scope and speed of self-organization pose challenges to crisis and disaster management: organizational and technological differences between civil society groups and established aid organizations complicate the collaboration between the players. The work not only conceptualizes the socio-technical aspects of these differences, but also presents new approaches to the design of information and communication technologies to support collaborative work between emergent and established organizations.

In Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) research, awareness for the relevance of diversity of users is increasing. Here, it was analysed whether the articulated need for more diversity-sensitive research led indeed to a higher consideration of diversity in HCI research. Based on a comprehensive collection of diversity dimensions, the results of a quantitative content analysis of articles accepted in the Proceedings of the Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems 2006, 2011 and 2016 are presented. Those dimensions that have received less attention so far are highlighted. The aim is to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of diversity that supports diversity-sensitive re– search in HCI.

D. Auferbauer (photo), H. Tellioglu. 2019. Socio-technical Dynamics: Cooperation of Emergent and Established Organisations in Crises and Disasters. In CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems Proceedings (CHI 2019), May 4–9, 2019, G lasgow, Scotland UK. ACM, New York, NY, USA, 13 pages. https://doi. org/10.1145/3290605.3300448.

J. Himmelsbach (photo), S. Schwarz, C. Gerdenitsch, B. Wais-Zechmann, J. Bobeth, M. Tscheligi. CHI 2019, May 4–9, 2019, Glasgow, Scotland UK Do We Care About Diversity in Human Computer Interaction: A Comprehensive Content Analysis on Diversity Dimensions in Research.

The treatment of blood pressure is essential for lowering the cardiovascular risk. There are no recommendations for blood pressure goals or treatment options for dialysis patients since the data on risk prediction by means of blood pressure in this collective is not clear. Together with doctors from the University Hospital rechts der Isar (Munich), we show in this work that there is indeed a U-shaped, non-linear relationship between 24h blood pressure and mortality in dialysis patients and that the underlying heart diseases, such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation can explain the opposite, non-linear associations. C.C. Mayer (photo), J. Matschkal, P. Sarafidis, S. Hagmair, G. Lorenz, S. Angermann, M. Braunisch, M. Baumann, U. Heemann, S. Wassertheurer, C. Schmaderer: „Association of Ambulatory Blood Pressure with All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: Effects of Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation“; Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 29 (2018), 9; pp. 2409 - 2417.

Geometric surface information such as depth maps and surface normals can be captured by various methods such as stereo fields of light, shape from shading, and photometric stereo techniques. We compare several algorithms that deal with the combination of depth with surface normal information in order to reconstruct a refined depth map. Based on our findings, we present a new generalized fusion method that is formulated as a „least squares problem“ and outperforms the previous methods in the depth error domain by introducing a new normal weighting that comes closer to the geodetic distance measure. Furthermore, a new method based on the Total Generalized Variation (TGV) is presented which exceeds previous approaches in terms of geodetic normal distance error and maintains a comparable quality in the depth error range.

Pneumatic drives are widely used in industrial production processes to perform point-to-point movements. To avoid the usage of expensive servo-pneumatic drives, this paper, co-authored by the Automation and Control Institute (ACIN) at the TU Wien, proposes a cost-efficient and flexible alternative. It combines pressure sensors with cheap partial position sensors at the end strokes to estimate the parameters of the mechanical system of the drive and allows to adapt the motion characteristics in real time. Additionally, a novel non-overshooting trajectory planning algorithm is presented. It inherently avoids too large impacts at the end stops and so increases the lifetime of the drive. The overall control concept is implemented on lab test benches. The experimental results prove its performance and robustness even at changing operating conditions.

D. Antensteiner (photo), S. Stolc, T. Pock: „A Review of Depth and Normal Fusion Algorithms“; Sensors, Vol. 18, (2018), Nr. 2; p.431.

A. Pfeffer (photo), T. Glück, F. Schausberger, A. Kugi: „Control and estimation stra tegies forpneumatic drives with partial positio information“; Mechatronics, 50 (2018), pp. 259 - 270.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: AIT/Zinner, Privat, Kirschnaz Zeiller, Rita Skof, AIT

TECHNOLOGY/RESEARCH/PAPERS

Future communication networks will not only pass on classical information but also quantum signals in order to network quantum computers or provide absolutely secure communication channels. In this work, we present a quantum network architecture in which a single entangled photon source distributes quantum states to many users and minimizes the resources required for each individual user – without sacrificing security or functionality. We demonstrate the feasibility of the approach using an entangled source whose photons are frequency-split and recombined in the optical output fibers. Unlike previous attempts based on active optical switches and limited to a particular configuration, our implementation is completely passive and offers potential for simultaneous quantum communication among all users. S. Wengerowsky, S. Koduru Joshi, F. Steinlechner, H. Hübel (photo), R. Ursin: “An entanglement-based wavelength-multiplexed quantum communication network”, Nature vol. 564, p p. 225–228 (2018)

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardio-vascular problems, diabetes, cancer, multi-skeletal disorders, depression, neurological disorders and many more are the major cause of health problems in OECD countries. However, chronic-degenerative diseases are largely preventable. The foresight project FRESHER (FORESIGHT AND MODELLING FOR EUROPEAN HEALTH POLICY AND REGULATION) discussed policy options with stakeholders from health, research, care, patient organisations, insurance and policy-making that go beyond the usual activities and identify alternatives. Using an analysis of trends that influence the development of NCDs well beyond the usual determinants of tobacco and alcohol consumption, salt, sugar and fat intake or sedentary behaviour, the most relevant and significant trends have been combined into four scenarios that represent possible futures. The alternatives presented here contribute to the discussion of policies for the future in a comprehensive approach to “health in all policies” in the EU. NCDs are not a matter of medicine and health only. Therefore, the traditional approach of health policy needs to be extended. A systematic and holistic approach is required to address all drivers and determinants that lead to a healthy life and well-being. S. Giesecke, B. Wepner (photo on the right): „Drivers, Trends and Scenarios for the Future of Health in Europe. Impressions from the FRESHER p roject“; European Journal of Futures Research, 6 (2018), 2; pp. 38 - 48.

CURTAIN CALL The researchers at AIT are achieving scientific excellence on a daily basis. They have repeatedly received awards for this. A small selection of recent awards for AIT illlustrates the diversity of this spectrum.

BEST POSTER AWARD Evgeniya Kabliman, Senior Scientist at the LKR Leichtmetallkompetenzzentrum Ranshofen, was awarded the „Best Poster Award“ at the 9th International Conference on Multiscale Material Modeling MMM2018 in Osaka, Japan. The research topic of her poster was „automatic analysis and numerical prediction of yield stress curves for aluminium

lloys“. The MMM conference is the a world‘s leading forum in this field and therefore enjoys the highest reputation.

LIVING STANDARDS AWARDS 2018 The team of the Digital Health Information Systems Competence Unit, represented by Anton Dunzendorfer, Peter Kastner, Kurt Edegger and Christian Gossy of AIT Digital Health Information Systems, was awarded the Living Standards Award 2018. Senior Engineer Peter Kastner (left photo): „The consistent use of standards makes it possible to integrate different

measuring sensors from different manufacturers into a health diary and, for example, to transfer blood glucose values to a smartphone app immediately after the measurement. The data is then synchronized with a telehealth service that doctors and nurses can access.“

The development of new materials and process technologies enables the optimization of material properties and the manufacturing of innovative products. Scientist Maciej Krystian was awarded the Werner Köster Award by the German Materials Society (DMG) in 2018. The award is bestowed for fundamental original works in the field of metallurgy. The

“International Journal of Materials Research” published Maciej‘s work „Structural anisotropy in equal-channel angular extruded nickel revealed by dilatometric study of excess volume“.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTOS: AIIT/Zinner

WERNER KÖSTER AWARD

RESEARCH/COMPETITIONS/AWARDS

FUTUREZONE AWARD Vienna gets a driverless bus line: The “auto.Bus – Seestadt” research project is sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) as part of the “Mobility of the Future” programme. As part of the project, the planned technology innovations will enable a leap in quality for the operation of future autonomous bus lines. The goal is the sustainable increase of the efficiency and operational safety of au-

tonomous vehicles in order to ultimately be able to operate a bus line in Seestadt under real conditions – with stops, timetables and real passengers. The interdisciplinary AIT research team pursues the objective of ensuring the optimal integration of new mobility services into the overall traffic system. For this, AIT was awarded the Green Mobility Award at the Futurezone Awards 2018.

The successful AIT research team: Wolfgang Pointner, Christian Zinner, Manfred Gruber, Peter Saleh, Thomas Zemen, Willibald Krenn, Alexandra Millonig and Peter Fröhlich (from left to right)

awards to ten particularly innovative products and solutions. The selection was made by an independent jury. Through pioneering approaches that meet the needs of industry, this AIT

technology has earned the Top Innovation 2019 award.

fic data in traffic events, including at construction sites. The Constantinus Award has been awarded annually since 2003 and is an initiative of the Association for Business Consulting, Accounting and IT (UBIT) of the WKÖ [Austrian Chamber of Trade, Commerce and Industry]. With more than 69,000 members, the trade association UBIT is one of the largest

and most dynamic industry representations in the WKÖ. The Austrian Chambers of Commerce represent a total of more than 517,000 member companies.

TOP-INNOVATION 2019 The AIT Center for Vision, Automation & Control received an award for its Inline Computational Imaging technology. For the fifth time, the trade journal InVISION grants

PHOTO: PicturePeople

CONSTANTINUS AWARD 2018 As part of the Constantinus Award, Austria‘s largest consulting and IT prize, the IoT Baseplate was awarded first place in the category Industry 4.0 / Internet of Things . It was developed by AIT in cooperation with Austrian SMEs and is an intelligent Internet of Things (IoT) traffic management footplate for the detection and transmission of real-time traf-

IMAGINE. ENGAGE. ACHIEVE.

omitted to Excellence. As Austria‘s largest applied research organization, the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology plays a leading role on the global stage in many infrastructure issues. This makes AIT a powerful development partner for industry and a top employer in the international science scene – with attractive, individual career opportunities and career paths for high potentials in many areas.

With one bracket covering all fields of activity: Each employee at the AIT is an Ingenious Partner. That means not only a clear commitment to excellence research, but also the commitment to take responsibility. For oneself and one‘s career opportunities, but also for the solutions being developed at the AIT. AIT offers applied research in Austria‘s largest RTO for this purpose. PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

PHOTO: AIT

At AIT, Careers Become Reality.

EMPLOYEES/HUMAN RESOURCES/CAREER

The optimal development of the talents and abilities of the employees is deemed particularly important at AIT. After all, the success of AIT – and thus the success for our clients and partners – is inextricably linked to the expertise of our Ingenious Partners. Elvira Welzig, Strategic HR and Science Networks

DIFFERENT ROLES AT DIFFERENT LEVELS • Project Management • Business Management • Business Development • Thematic Coordinator

PHOTO: Krischanz Zeiller

A highly innovative environment, transparent career paths, clear and varied job profiles are the basis for a self-determined career, presenting an ongoing dialogue with our talents for individual development at the highest level. CAREER PATHS AT AIT – FIVE JOB OUTLINES • Science • Research Engineering & Expert Advice • Management • Support • Technical Services

These roles offer the opportunity to grow into new task fields. AIT provides support with continued, targeted further education. We actively promote the transition between career paths and roles, thus offering our employees the opportunity to consciously shape their personal career progression. The AIT values „Imagine. Engage. Achieve“ constitute a living foundation for the continuous promotion of our talents. For we know: “Talent attracts talent”.

More about the AIT career paths: https://www.ait.ac.at/fileadmin//cmc/downloads/ New_Career/AIT_Career_Paths.pdf

AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF THE NEAR FUTURE AIT is a recognized host and co-organizer on many international market and knowledge platforms. Thus, trends and developments in different industries are not only identified early on. The interdisciplinary know-how of AIT also makes it possible to develop appropriate solutions for customers very early and above all quickly. RANSHOFENER LIGHT METAL DAYS In mid-June 2018, the Ranshofener Leichtmetalltage light alloys conference took place for the 10th time in Linz. Invited by the LKR Leichtmetallkompetenzzentrum Ranshofen, more than 120 materials scientists and scientists from the international light metal sector met for a two-day industry gathering and knowledge exchange. On the one hand, the Leichtmetalltage conference offers an opportunity to explore possible applications and progress in the LKR competence fields. On the other hand, it reveals clear trends and expectations from the industry, which should be taken into consideration. In the previous year, the exciting podium discussion introduced many new aspects to the current topics of research. The audience of experts was inspired by the lectures and keynotes as well as the concept behind the conference: For instance, more public interaction was achieved through a digital conference tool in 2018. BANKNOTE CONFERENCE 2018 The AIT Center for Vision, Automation & Control positioned itself at the leading exhibition for technologies in the banknote industry which took place in May 2018 in Dallas. Andreas Vrabl, Head of Center for Vision, Automation & Control, was invited to the discussion on “Sensor Development and How is it Evolving?”. The conference offered a unique opportunity to discuss technology trends and the current state of the industry with leading representatives from politics, business and industry. The selected presentations provided numerous opportunities for valuable information exchange at the international level. The AIT Center for Vision, Automation & Control is a leader in the banknote industry when it comes to quality assurance in banknote production and has contributed its expertise in many discussions.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

CONGRESSES/EVENTS/AGENDA SETTING

MICROBIOMESUPPORT PROJECT – COMMON GROUND WORKSHOP In early March 2019, over 100 science and industry representatives from 24 countries met in Vienna for the „MicrobiomeSupport Common Ground Workshop“ under the leadership of AIT. The objective of the project is to secure the production of healthy food and animal feed in the long term and to design it in an even more sustainable manner. Microorganisms have an impact on the growth and health of crops, their storage, and they are a relevant factor in hygiene. Workshop Coordinator Angela Sessitsch (photo left): „We want to connect various microbiome stakeholders and microbiome disciplines to pave the way for a strategic R&D agenda. We are working effectively towards attaining nutritional security, sustainable production and bioeconomy, as well as improved human health.”

PHOTOS: LKR/Wenter, AIT, Studio Horak, Krischanz Zeiller

TRANSPORT RESEARCH ARENA (TRA) AIT presented groundbreaking innovative research and development projects in the field of mobility at the largest traffic research conference in Europe which took place in April 2018 in Vienna. As a co-organizer of the conference, AIT brought the world‘s best experts on the various topics to Vienna. „As a member of the Programme Committee, AIT was responsible for the content of the TRA 2018, organizing over 90 sessions on traffic and mobility,“ said Christian Chimani, AIT Head of Center for Low-Emission Transport and Chair of the Programme Committee of the Transport Research Arena 2018. In total, more than 3,000 scientists and experts examined and discussed the topics of digitisation and decarbonisation of the transport system for four days, with the motto of the TRA 2018 having been: „A digital era for transport – solutions for society, economy and environment“. For its part, AIT, Austria‘s largest research and technology organization, presented a wide range of current projects – from the battery of the future, innovative fast-charging systems, new materials for vehicle construction, methods and technologies for improving traffic safety, to solutions that make mobility systems and goods transport able to be designed in an even more efficient manner. With its research work, AIT makes an important contribution to the curbing of climate change in the future and to keeping the planet liveable for future generations. Outstanding research achievements, for example in the areas of e-mobility, energy, transport, site and urban planning as well as the development of new materials, are to contribute to achieving the great goal of decarbonisation while making more intense use of digital methods.

MI-4: MISSION INNOVATION MINISTERIAL

SYMPOSIUM ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The MI-4 took place in Vancouver at the end of May 2019. As part of the Global Energy Change Initiative, Energy Ministers from around the world met for the fourth time to discuss the future supply of clean energy. The AIT Center for Energy was represented as National Mission Innovation Secretariat on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) and supported the organization of the Austrian side event „Pilot Multilateral Call for Cooperative RDI Projects“.

In April 2019, a scientific symposium took place at the AIT business location Giefinggasse. More than 200 participants spent two days discussing the latest developments and trends in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and robotics. Wolfgang Knoll, scientific Managing Director of AIT: “The topic of Artificial Intelligence concerns every single person. AIT acts as a national and international hub at the interface between science and industry, enabling and promoting scientific exchange between international and national experts, as well as industry and public institutions.“ AIT helps to define strategies and thus to enable a „smart transition“ for its clients – both from the public and the economic sectors. An exact knowledge of markets and requirements is crucial to this. Ross King, Senior Scientist at AIT, presented AIT solutions on the topic of “applied AI”. AIT‘s Digital Insight Lab (DIL) provides data science consulting and develops solutions that enable informed decision-making based on large, heterogeneous datasets and real-time data. For example, in the German-Austrian bilateral project FLORIDA, a semi-automated video forensics system is being developed for the analysis of video data after terrorist attacks. Andreas Kugi, AIT’s Head of Center for Vision, Automation & Control and Head of the Automation and Control Institute (ACIN) at the TU Wien [Vienna University of Technology], showed whether and how AI will change industrial automation. Companies often lack a consistent data strategy. In addition, entrepreneurial processes would have to be „re-thought“, said Kugi.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

CONGRESSES/EVENTS/AGENDA SETTING

ALPBACH TECHNOLOGY FORUM In 2018, the „Alpbach Technology Forum“ was held for the 35th time as part of the European Forum Alpbach. They are organized by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology and ORF (Radio Österreich 1). International experts and experts from science, industry and politics discuss forward-looking topics in plenary sessions and breakout sessions – in 2018 this was „Diversity & Resilience“, in 2019 it will be „Liberty and Security“ – in the current context of research and innovation. The „Alpbach Technology Forum“ is being held in cooperation with the Federal Ministries of Education, Science and Research; Digital and Economic Affairs; Transport, Innovation and Technology; and the daily newspaper “Die Presse”. The scientific topic partner is the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers and the industrial partner is the Federation of Austrian Industry. The picture shows the participants of the Alpbach Session of the Falling Walls Lab Austria with the Chairs Hermann Hauser, Jürgen Mlynek and Wolfgang Knoll.

PHOTOS: AIT/Husar, AIT/Zinner, AIT/Narula, Vancouver Convention Centre

VIENNA CYBER SECURITY WEEK Vienna has evolved into a globally recognized hub for the international Cyber Security dialogue. The AIT Center for Digital Safety & Security plays a decisive role in this: Around 700 participants from around 70 countries, 115 speakers, and an exhibition with innovative solutions around Cyber Security – the Vienna Cyber Security Week, which took place for the third time this year, set new standards. The focus of the VCSW 2019 was on critical infrastructure, on the fight against cybercrime, on regulation and legislation, as well as on standardization. Security aspects have to be considered right from the start, especially for more complex systems. The first standards are only just now being developed for this. Artificial Intelligence is also becoming increasingly important, especially with the new applications of the Internet of Things. Innovative encryption technologies, such as those developed at AIT, are becoming increasingly important. This successful format, existing since 2017, is organized by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, WKO Aussenwirtschaft Austria, and the Energypact Foundation in close cooperation with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). A technology exhibition was held within the scope of the conference week which took place under the motto: “Protecting Critical Infrastructure”.

CENTER FOR ENERGY The Center for Energy develops solutions for the sustainable energy supply of tomorrow and supports industrial companies and infrastructure managers in their transformation processes.

t AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center for Energy, more than 220 employees explore the future of sustainable energy supplies. The core competences and solutions are covering energy technologies, energy system design and operation, digital solutions and enabling the policy framework. Many years of experience, scientific excellence and high-quality lab infrastructure, as well as global networking, combine to offer companies innovative and applied research. The Center for Energyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of topics is oriented towards three central future fields: Sustainable energy infrastructure, decarbonisation of industrial processes and plants, and innovative technologies and solutions for urban transformation (buildings, cities). The energy sector is undergoing a drastic process of change. But the transformation of the

energy system is opens completely new opportunities for successful market players and creates entirely new opportunities for products and offers. The substantial increase of renewable energy supply requires a paradigm shift towards intelligent grid operation. For commerce and industry, the security of power supplies is a key element for competing successfully at a global level. The AIT Center for Energy is working on the further development of its services. The strengths of the Center are based on a high level of research and application expertise. The team contributes to driving forward the transformation of energy systems and development and integration of the required technologies, in cooperation with research and industry.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

DECARBONISATION/ENERGY/INDUSTRY

Wolfgang Hribernik, Head of Center for Energy

The AIT SmartEST Laboratory is among the leading labs for the development and testing of electrical energy systems.

IMPLEMENTATION OF DIRECT CURRENT (DC) LAB

PHOTOS: PicturePeople

SMARTEST LABORATORY The SmartEST Laboratory has a unique infrastructure and assumes a global position through collaborations and interdisciplinary know-how. This allows hardware tests to be combined with the adavantages of the digital real-time simulation. The SmartEST laboratory offers an ideal experimental environment to researchers, grid operators and manufacturers of components for electric power systems. Among the technologies developed, AIT’s SmartGrid Converter (ASCG) forms the core of the power electronics systems sector. AIT has also been an internationally active hub for SmartGrid research for many years. As a founding member of DERLab, AIT actively participates in the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA), as well as in technology platforms in connection with the implementation of the SETPlan. The goal of these activities is to shape research priorities jointly at a European level and to use and develop research infrastructure efficiently while supporting the mobility of researchers. Particularly important is the combination of technical competence and the interdisciplinary approach, because energy systems follow in addition to technologies, system architectures and rules. Therefore, only integrated system observations that can address all of these levels will be able to support the transformation of the energy system sustainably.

AIT teams are collaborating with the Nikola Tesla Lab at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) to design development tools and test methods for future DC systems and technologies. At the level of distribution systems – such as in the application field dealing with buildings supplied by direct current – the SmartEST lab and its associated extensions offer an ideal platform for development. At the level of transmission grids and ultrahighvoltage grids, technologies have to be tested for the demands of the insolation systems in ultrahighvoltage areas. AIT has an international position in this field as an outstanding cooperation partner with interdisciplinary expertise. DECARBONISATION AND DIGITALIZATION In the context of the energy transition and climate targets, the active participation of energyintensive industry plays a key role. The AIT Center for Energy is a development partner for industry with a specialized working group. The experts help to implement strategic topics in national and international research projects, to develop new technology standards and to assist industry with lab services and knowhow. AIT also helps to assist academic exchange through its own endowed professorship at the Vienna University of Technology (SIC! – Smart Industrial Concept) and coordinates NEFI – New Energy for Industry, a program of the flagship regions of the Austrian Climate and Energy Fund for the decarbonisation of the industrial energy system.

AIT develops convergent mobility systems for future requirements.

CENTER FOR MOBILITY SYSTEMS Holistic, intelligent and sustainable: The experts at the Center for Mobility Systems are developing interdisciplinary, smart solutions for the mobility of tomorrow.

obility systems are subject to fundamental Âchanges. In addition to rapid technological progress, the deciding factors in this respect include primarily urban growth and demographic development, clearly defined ecological targets as well as changes in the working world. Trends such as the sharing economy and the desire for a socially just, secure and barrier-free mobility for everyone will gain even greater importance in the future. These developments require completely new methods and approaches in terms of mobility. The parallel existence of the mobility of persons, goods transport and its associated traffic infrastructure is increasingly

being replaced by an interaction between existing and future technologies and stakeholders. At the same time, the mobility system must meet the needs of the people. More than 100 highly-qualified, specialised and international experts work at the AIT Center for Mobility Systems. Our interdisciplinary team carries out research and development in the fields of mobility data collection and analysis, passenger flow analysis and impact assessment, mobility behavioural research, traffic planning, simulation and predictive models, structural dynamics and acoustics, traffic safety, traffic infrastructure, as well as transport logistics and optimisation. Developments such as Mobility PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

TRAFFIC/TRANSPORT/MOBILITY

Arno Klamminger, Head of Center for Mobility Systems

as a Service, synchromodality, automated driving, physical internet or intelligent roads are great challenges for us. Convergence is an essential part of every solution and every solution is part of the convergent system. TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ACCIDENT RESEARCH Traffic safety throughout the entire road network is a priority objective of road operators. These are facing major challenges, in particular because certain traffic situations are becoming increasingly complex due to shifts in the modal split and, consequently, there are major changes in the proportionate use of the road space. Increased interactions between unprotected road users and motorized traffic as well as the application of new technologies in all modes of traffic call for new security concepts and strategies. The AIT experts develop new analysis and simulation tools capable of combining road condition data and road mapping parameters with accident data, providing a reliable risk assessment for existing and planned roads. Roads can be virtually and realistically modelled using these measurement data, so that entire road networks with their potential hazards can be modeled using algorithms and complex road-vehicle relationships can be simulated and investigated.

PHOTOS: AIT/Zinner, AIT

AUTO.BUS – SEESTADT Vienna gets a driverless bus line: In course of the project „auto.Bus – Seestadt“, funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) as part of the „Mobility of the Future“ program, a qualitative leap is to be made possible for the operation of future autonomous bus routes. The goal is the sustainable increase of the efficiency and operational safety of autonomous vehicles in order to ultimately be able to operate a bus line in Seestadt under real conditions – with stops, timetables and real passengers. The project partners Wiener Linien, AIT, KFV, TÜV, Siemens and Navya cover important areas with their expertise, such as the further development of sensors, the acceptance by the passengers, the adaptation of the necessary legal framework conditions as well as the functional safety and IT security of the deployed systems or the „communication“ of the bus with its surroundings.

LEVITATE: PROACTIVE DESIGN OF OF EUROPE’S DRIVERLESS MOBILITY FUTURE Automated and connected vehicles will radically change the mobility of the next decades. To varying degrees and in different contexts, vehicles will be able to autonomously maneuver, accelerate and decelerate and monitor their surroundings. As part of the project “LEVITATE: Societal Level Impacts of Connected and Automated Vehicles” it is being investigated, which functions interconnected and automated driving can take on in the field of passenger and freight mobility and at a societal level, how traffic infrastructure should be designed for this, and which innovative mobility concepts must therefore be developed. As part of this, the AIT will develop a generally accessible toolkit to assess the impacts, benefits and costs of connected and automated systems, including the necessary infrastructures. AUTONOMOUS TICKETING Next generation ticketing requires no additional infrastructure or active user interaction. It is based on smartphones and the reliable collection of mobility data. With the MODE software solution from AIT, data such as mode of transportation, routes and transfer points can be captured automatically and precisely in the background. The MODE software components (client and back-end) can be easily integrated into various existing ticketing applications and platforms, taking into account specific customer requirements and interfaces. They make the ideal basis for autonomous ticketing solutions for public transport operators and mobility providers.

CENTER FOR DIGITAL SAFETY & SECURITY The experts at the AIT Center for Digital Safety & Security are developing state-of-the-art information and communication technologies (ICT) and systems in order to design critical infrastructures in a secure and reliable manner in the context of comprehensive and global networking and digitisation.

he security and reliability of complex systems are of the utmost importance for the protection of people and society. Cyber Security for Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), and Internet of Things (IoT), highly secure and highly available software and systems as well as highly reliable next generation (5G) wireless communications are among the most important factors in modern IT-associated production and development environments. Other key technology areas include state-of-the-art encryption methods (Quantum Safe) for virtual IT systems, data science for new approaches to modern data management (Big Data, Blockchain technologies), and the latest sensor technologies and

critical infrastructure protection systems. These requirements are supplemented by the development of command and control systems for use in modern crisis and disaster management as well as physical protection of critical infrastructures and digital identity management through state-of-the-art biometric sensor technology. All of these topics are addressed by highly specialized development teams at the AIT Center for Digital Safety & Security. In close cooperation with business and industry, science and the public sector, strategic technology research and the development of market-oriented prototypes through to the validation of applications in disruptive ecosystems is carried out. PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

DIGITISATION/SAFETY/SECURITY

Helmut Leopold, Head of Center for

AIT is developing ground‑ breaking solutions in the area of Digital Identity as well.

Digital Safety & Security

now developed „Graphsense” which has become a leading international forensic tool for the analysis of virtual currencies. Building on its core competencies in the field of Blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies, AIT has created the prerequisites required for optimally supporting law enforcement authorities in their investigation activities with state-of-the-art tools. SECURITY BY DESIGN

The Center for Digital Safety & Security has a recognized position in Austrian and international innovation and security research programmes and builds on strategic partnerships with key Austrian security actors (BMI and BMLV) as well as in international industry initiatives such as ECSO (European Cyber Security Organization), PSCE (Public Safety Communication Europe), EARTO/EUROTECH Security Group (Task Force of European Research Organizations in the Security Context) and ARTEMIS / ECSEL (European Technology and Research Platform in the area of embedded and cyber-physical systems).

PHOTOS: PicturePeople, Michael Mürling

GRAPHSENSE The end of January 2019 saw a milestone in the EU project „TITANIUM“: the police test phase began. TITANIUM (Tools for the Investigation of Transactions in Underground Markets) brings together 15 research organizations, IT companies and police forces from seven European countries in the joint development of new forensic technologies for the detection and investigation of cybercrime in the Darknet. The first practical phase of the project started with the “Field Labs”. The starting point for this initiative are virtual currencies (cryptocurrencies), which are regarded as the most common means of payment for anonymised illegal cyber activities. In order to be able to effectively counter this new growing threat potential for all Internet users, AIT has

Growing complexity in networking and digitisation requires new approaches to build software systems in an efficient, safe and reliable manner. In particular, the modern comprehensive availability and security requirements pose new system development challenges for manufacturers. The software and system developer LieberLieber (www.lieberlieber.com) therefore specialized in model- based system development and developed special solution modules for the widespread development environment „Enterprise Architect“ by Sparx Systems (www.sparxsystems.at) in the automotive sector. In order to take safety (high operational security) and security (protection against cyber attacks) into account in a harmonized manner in system design from the outset, LieberLieber relies on AIT‘s know-how and technologies: with „MoMuT“ (Model-based Mutation Testing), the latter has developed a special tool for simply and automatically deriving test procedures from system descriptions and ensuring correct system behaviour (safety), best possible performance and highest security (security) against potential external manipulation. To this end, AIT also developed a new type of threat modelling based on a constantly updated and well-maintained threat database for the protection of cyber-physical systems. LieberLieber offers this threat modelling for various industries (automotive, transportation and critical infrastructures) as part of cyber security modelling (https:// cybersecurity.sparxservices.eu). This significantly reduces development costs for complex systems, while at the same time significantly increasing system quality.

CENTER FOR HEALTH & BIORESOURCES The AIT Center for Health & Bioresources is researching essential challenges of demographic change and resource scarcity. The focus is on the major topics „telemedicine“, „medical technology“, „molecular diagnostics“ as well as the use of „bioresources“.

ith its core competencies, the Center for Health & Bioresources addresses clients from the health, environmental and agricultural sectors. In doing so, the team relies on the development of innovations and solutions that recognize diseases early on and support healthy and active aging, just to give two examples. This is made possible by new approaches in non-invasive diagnostics, in the field of telehealth, the development of bioactive materials for innovative implants and prostheses, as well as patient-supporting medical products. The sustainable and innovative handling of biological resources and their efficient use

is another large research field. AIT‘s research focus here is on increasing the stress tolerance of plants under changing environmental conditions, the interaction of plants and microorganisms, the rapid detection of pests, mould and allergenic fungi as well as the control of pathogens and invasive plants. For this research, AIT has a comprehensive, high-end and unique research infrastructures, such as a DNA bank in which already more than half a million DNA samples of plant and animal origin are stored under high-tech conditions at –20°C which can be used e.g. for genotyping in breeding and selection processes. PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

HEALTH/BIORESOURCES/MEDICINE

Elke Guenther, Head of Center for Health & Bioresources

In biomarker research, AIT is among the leading RTOs in Europe.

SEEDJECTION

PHOTOS: PicturePeople, Zinner

HEALTH INFORMATION SYSTEMS AIT‘s Service Health Information Systems research focuses on integrated eHealth solutions for biomedical research and patient-centred healthcare. Modern information and communication technologies (ICT) enable new approaches to a modern health system (dHealth) and to age-friendly assistance systems (Active Assisted Living – AAL). Future next-generation therapy approaches are based on closed loop control systems (closed loop healthcare), in which the health status of patients is continuously monitored and the therapy adapted, if necessary. State-of-the-art technologies help design the cooperative treatment process flexibly and efficiently regardless of time and location though asynchronous communication adapted to the respective work rhythm. For example, new approaches for intuitive and mobile data collection by patients are being developed using the Keep In Touch technology developed by AIT. These new functions and systems are embedded in already existing complex IT infrastructures and evaluated and validated in a medical context.

Plant microorganisms have the potential to overcome important problems of modern agriculture. Through the colonization of plant tissue, they can promote plant growth, increase the resistance of plants to adverse climatic con– ditions, or fight pathogens. In the fall of 2018, AIT introduced its patented “SeedJection” technology, which enables the injection of beneficial microorganisms into seeds. In current agricultural practice, most microbial products are used as seed coating or for soil improvements. However, these delivery technologies make it difficult to exploit the full potential of beneficial microorganisms. SeedJection can close this gap: It is a high-throughput method for mechanically incorporating useful microorganisms in seeds. The patented and registered technology is based on automatically cutting open the surface of the seed, injecting microbial inoculants into the starch reservoir, and then closing the seeds. POINT OF CARE DIAGNOSTICS & BIOSENSORS Mobile molecular diagnostics requires miniaturized and automated devices with the highest analytical performance which can detect diseases faster and more accurately with the help of various body fluids. AIT has in-depth know-how in realising such measuring systems, with the AIT system integration experts covering the full spectrum – from biomarkers, microfluidics, molecular detection reactions and biosensors to readout electronics and process management. A particular focus is on saliva, which is well-suited for near-patient diagnostics thanks to its non-invasive sampling capability. In the field of biosensor technology, AIT has many years of experience in the development of highly sensitive and highly selective detection methods for the detection of biomolecules in liquid samples using innovative electrochemical, photonic, magnetic and nanomaterial-based methods. The focus is on the detection of nucleic acids and proteins for patient-side diagnostics.

CENTER FOR LOW-EMISSION TRANSPORT The Center for Low-Emission Transport develops innovations for efficient, intelligent and safe vehicle components. The focus is on two key technologies for sustainable transport and mobility: powertrain electrification and material-based lightweight design.

n both areas, material development, semi-industrial processing technology and component design form the pillars for the integrated deployment of innovative vehicle system components. Research focuses on the further development of battery technologies and management systems, power electronics and electric propulsion, vehicle simulations, high-quality light metal alloys and sustainable manufacturing processes, as well as functionally integrated lightweight components. Leading the way in the development and characterization of new materials is the LKR Leichtmetallkompetenzzentrum Ranshofen. The LKR Leichtmetallkompetenzzentrum Ranshofen is a subsidiary of AIT and celebrates its 25-year anniversary in 2019. In this quarter of a century, the LKR has built up extensive expertise and know-how in the holistic consideration of lightweight

construction in the vehicle sector â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from materials, process technology and material-related structural design through to new technologies such as wire + arc additive manufacturing of aluminium and magnesium. Our 50-strong LKR team is researching the light metals aluminium and magnesium in order to develop efficient, safe and environmentally friendly mobility solutions. On the one hand, this involves sustainable, efficient manufacturing processes for materials in order to enable a significant reduction in energy consumption as early as in the production stage. On the other hand, the materials have to meet the requirements for use in components under high stress, e.g. in new electric mobility vehicles. In the coming years, the LKR will not only further develop the existing technologies in the casting and forming processes, but will also help to achieve new PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

MATERIAL RESEARCH/TRANSPORT/LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION

New approaches in 3D printing with light metals: The WAAM-compatible special wires can be manufactured and directly welded in the AM Laboratory of the LKR.

breakthroughs in key technologies such as wire + arc additive manufacturing (WAAM). This is to promote the digitisation and decarbonisation of the transport sector. COMET PROJECT AMALFI In order to make light metals fit for future industrial applications, the LKR Leichtmetallkompetenzzentrum Ranshofen is pooling its expertise with 12 project partners from industry and science. The LKR research team will explore and further develop new types of aluminium and magnesium alloys, taking into account different production and processing chains. In addition, the AMALFI consortium also focuses on the development of new types of microstructure and structural models for aluminium and magnesium alloys. These models have the potential to significantly advance the development of future Al and Mg alloys, in particular through virtual numerical simulation.

FOTOS: AIT/LKR/Lang

WIRE-ARC ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING (WAAM) To help wire + arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) achieve a breakthrough as a key technology in industry, LKR scientists have been researching this robust manufacturing technology and the special wires required for several years. In LKR‘s inhouse smart wire manufacturing route, new WAAM-

Christian Chimani, Head of Center for Low-Emission Transport & Managing Director LKR

grade aluminium and magnesium materials are pressed and wound into welding wires. In the newly built Additive Manufacturing Laboratory, these special wires can be assembled into a complex 3D component by means of material-specific process control, a multi-axis robotic system and state-ofthe-art burner technologies. In addition to the experimental welding and WAAM developments, the LKR is researching the related topics of FEM-based material and process simulation, online monitoring, data management, CAD-CAM interface, and inline process control. FIRE RESISTANT MAGNESIUM ALLOYS Scientists at the LKR have developed flame-retardant magnesium alloys which, in the event of fire, even extin– guish by themselves again. They are characterized by improved fire resistance along with good mechanical properties, with an FAA fire test having been passed as well. The LKR development is significantly less expensive than alloys with comparable fire resistance. Furthermore, process-reliable processing (die casting, thixomoulding) is possible as well. The LKR team is now also increasingly researching calcium-containing alloys, since calcium is cheap and generally readily available. BATTERY RESEARCH The development of batteries as the centerpiece of modern electric drive concepts is currently receiving a great deal of attention. Great efforts are being made worldwide to make this electric energy storage unit as efficient, powerful, costeffective, and safe as possible. Building on a holistic research and development approach, the experts at AIT are driving the progress of these technologies with great speed.

The solutions for the Center for Vision, Automation & Control work 24/7, even in harsh industrial environments. They control the efficiency and secure the quality of the production.

CENTER FOR VISION, AUTOMATION & CONTROL „From sensor to decision“: The Center is developing methods and technologies that span the entire chain from sensor development via data collection and analysis as well as intelligent algorithms t hrough to the resulting decisions. This forms the basis for the digitalisation and automation of production processes and for the design of groundbreaking assistance systems and autonomous systems.

he pressure on industry to invest more in digitalisation and automation is continuously increasing. While in the past, the focus was predominantly on increasing efficiency, today the sustainable use of raw materials and energy, targeted CO2 reduction, diversification and customization of the product portfolio, increased quality standards and, last but not least, the shortage of skilled workers are the driving forces for the next steps in automation. At the Center, 80 experts are conducting research for and with our clients in the fields of image processing, fusion of sensor data, machine learning, data analytics, mathematical modelling for real-time applications, process automation, system analysis, control, and optimizati-

on of complex dynamical systems and processes. Starting with a comprehensive system analysis and the required domain- specific understanding of the system, we are developing solutions from the individual component – e.g. specific camera configurations for quality inspection – through to complex complete systems such as an autonomous work machine or the optimized control of a complex production process. Industry benefits from this application-oriented research. The portfolio encompasses the entire spectrum from consulting via medium- and longterm strategic research cooperation and the development of prototypes through to the support of industrial implementation and application. PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

VISUALISATION/QUALITY CONTROL/PRODUCTIONE

Andreas Kugi, Andreas Vrabl (r.) Heads of Center for Vision, Automation & Control

HIGH-PERFORMANCE VISION – HIGH SPEED SENSORS FOR AUTOMATION Numerous tasks from industry, often coupled with high process speed and the demand for a continuous online recording of the production, call for new ideas and approaches in the area of sensor technology. The focus of research is on the deployment and further development of ultra-fast camera and lighting technologies, on scalable embedded vision systems as well as on computational imaging and machine learning. The real-time capability of the systems, even at extreme data rates, is essential for ensuring an effective control of the production process based on sensor data. This requires the use of fast individual components as well as a carefully balanced overall architecture of hardware, software and algorithms („hardware-software co-design“). Typical industrial applications include the classification, measuring and inspection tasks of products with complex surface properties. The intelligent test sensors developed in the Center for this purpose are integrated into the client‘s existing production facilities, often in very harsh industrial environments. As a case in point, the use of AIT high-performance vision technologies has set new standards worldwide in banknote printing, inspection of castings or other metallic or glossy surfaces as well as in rail and road surface inspection.

PHOTOS: Getty Images, AIT/Zinner

INTELLIGENT COMPONENTS AND SYSTEMS The latest developments in the fields of electronics, sensor technology and algorithmics enable completely new solutions in product design and in the design of value chains. Intelligent production systems play a central role in the latter. In close cooperation with industry, we are developing tailor-made solutions for the real-time optimisation of production processes based on a suitable combination of first-principles and data-driven mathematical models (digital twin). The objective is to systematically use all existing information (process knowledge, data, models, measurements) to optimize throughput, reduce waste, and save resources. With our models and the generated data, we can furthermore detect errors at an early stage and possibly even avoid them, increase flexibility and improve human-machine interaction. In addition to the development of real-time optimisation, control and estimation methods,

diagnostic systems and adaptive learning algorithms, we are also working on the optimal selection and integration of sensors and actuators in the overall system. Our team possesses extensive know-how in various areas of drive technology (hydraulics, pneumatics, electromagnetics, electrical machines) and in the fusion of different sensors. The application areas of the developed methods range from pneumatic valves via robotic systems through to strip annealing furnaces in steel production. AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS – DRIVING, TRANSPORTING, WORKING Triggered by the success with assistance systems and the first autonomously driving tests in road traffic, the interest and need for assistance functions and autonomisation in a wide variety of application areas is growing. Public transport, rail and bus, the construction industry and agriculture, special machines and robotics applications as well as aviation are the focal points of our clients. In addition to autonomous driving or flying, loading and transport operations, for example at an airport or between several factory locations, are also being researched and new solutions are being developed for an autonomous operation. Work processes using mobile machines such as excavators, tractors, sweepers or mowers offer numerous opportunities for automation and increased efficiency. Even though the fully autonomous operation of a road vehicle is not yet possible under all weather and environmental conditions due to the wide variety of possible scenarios, the technologies available currently allow real deployable autonomous systems under certain conditions such as on factory premises. Technology components for 3D environment detection, object classification, scene understanding and localization as well as path planning are developed for this purpose and integrated into prototype systems in collaboration with industrial partners, with security and availability aspects playing an essential role. Machine learning approaches are increasingly used in particular for the classification of objects and for scene understanding, and corresponding data campaigns are carried out for training purposes.

CENTER FOR TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE The Center for Technology Experience deals with fundamental questions on the interaction between humans and technology. Thus, new business models are designed, and innovation processes can be measured.

e do not just use technology, we live with it. Much more deeply than ever before, dealing with technology involves us emotionally, intellectually, and sensually. Based on interdisciplinary principles we investigate qualities, forms of interaction and new methods and tools. User experience research, experience driven innovation as well as new modalities of interaction have evolved into prominent and required building blocks towards future innovative and successful technologies, applications and services. The Center for Technology Experience supports public and private customers with the newest scientific approaches and methods to develop them. Experience Oriented Innovation helps organizations to understand their

customers at a whole new level by identifying experience gaps. With our team of researchers and engineers, we unleash innovation potential, prototypically implement experiences and help organizations get new products and services on track faster. This means business design through a targeted user experience strategy and a measurable innovation process. The Center offers a variety of services along the innovation chain for the development of new products, systems and services. Starting with target-group-specific needs analyses that take into account the diversity of the stakeholders in a market, via customized interaction and service designs, through to impact analyses of mock-ups in labs and in field experiments. These are supplemented by PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

USER ACCEPTANCE/TECHNOLOGY/INNOVATION PROCESSES

Manfred Tscheligi, Head of Center for Technology Experience

Future technologies can be Âtested for their consumer acceptance in VR environments.

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE IN DIGITISATION AND INDUSTRY 4.0

innovative methods in the field of experience and technology acceptance measurement with a special focus on experience as a success factor. The development of prototypes for new social interfaces and the design of work environments in organizations in the course of digital transformation are part of the service portfolio as well.

PHOTOS: RIta Skof, AIIT/Zinner

ENSURING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION WITH TECHNOÂ LOGY EXPERIENCE The idea for a new product exists, the development is started or planned. But which factors determine whether a product or service will be readily used by the target group in the long term? How can design aspects and user experience be meaningfully and efficiently integrated into the development process in order to achieve optimized customer satisfaction during purchase and use despite shorter implementation cycles? We help companies to answer these questions by developing individual technology acceptance models and empirically evaluating them with the target group. Our broad methodological competence enables us to support differently sized product development projects in all phases between prototype development and market launch. We support the development process with concrete and easily implementable recommendations for action.

Digitisation and automation in industry have an impact on daily working life and often drastically change work processes. In this respect, the Center for Technology Experience analyses the optimal user-centric design of digital work environments and related work experiences. Future technologies will be made available to users early on by means of prototyping approaches for this purpose and in order to develop optimal designs. An essential part of this is the inclusion of persuasive strategies and design principles in order to achieve the highest possible compliance when using digital work equipment and processes. This is of particular importance in the area of IT security against the background of increasing digital security risks. By participating in numerous research projects, the Center has been able to establish itself as a leading player in the field of digitisation and Industry 4.0 and the associated challenges. VIRTUAL REALITY AND AUGMENTED REALITY AS NEW EXPERIENCE PARADIGMS After more than 20 years of R&D, Virtual and Augmented Reality are now ready for the market. Many products and technologies were brought to market in recent years. In order for AR and VR to provide users with a real added value that goes beyond technical effects, it is important to determine the needs and requirements of users and to meet these requirements by means of an appropriate interaction and information design and corresponding quality of experience. The Future Interface Paradigms research group has years of experience in VR and AR application interaction design and user engagement in product development and can optimally support the product development process of AR and VR applications.

CENTER FOR INNOVATION SYSTEMS & POLICY The Center for Innovation Systems & Policy is a central node in national and international research and innovation networks and a partner for public administration, companies, universities and research institutions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as well as a think tank and advisor for Austrian and European policy-makers.

esearch, technology development and innovation are central to securing our economic well-being and addressing societal challenges. Against this backâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; ground, the AIT deals with current and future requirements for R&I systems as well as with the options for action resulting from this for research, technology and innovation policy (RTI) and its stakeholders. We use state-of-the-art methods to analyse research and innovation processes and systems, as well as forward-looking approaches to help public administration and companies define RTI policies. With its work in the area of innovation systems and digitisation, AIT conâ&#x20AC;&#x2018; tributes to the understanding and development of a systemic RTI policy. It does so on the basis of a solid knowled-

ge of research and innovation strategies of companies and research organizations. The use of quantitative methods is becoming more and more important for the analysis of innovation systems. Corresponding methods are developed and applied in the research field Innovation Dynamics & Modelling and the necessary data is prepared as well. Using forward-looking methods, our research field Societal Futures explores new signals and patterns in technological and socio-economic development and uses them to develop policy and business strategies. The development and evaluation of RTI policy instruments is at the heart of the research field Policy Instruments & Institutional Change.

PROFILE & HIGHLIGHTS

NETWORKS/RTI POLICY/FORESIGHT

Matthias Weber, Head of Center for Innovation Systems & Policy

The achievements of AIT assist in the pursuit of strategic and visionary paths into the future and thus in shaping the future.

AUSTRIAN STARTUP MONITOR The Austrian Startup Monitor is the largest and most extensive study of Austria’s start-up scene to date. It´s the first analysis to create a database, firmly rooted in scientific research, on the creation, dynamics, and development of start-ups in Austria. More than 500 start-up founders were intensively interviewed for this representative study. The results show that the central motivation for almost all founders is to be able to realize their own idea or solve a problem. Around three quarters have already opened up international markets and generate export sales.

PHOTOS: Krischanz Zeiler, AIT

RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE FOR RESEARCH AND INNOVATION POLICY STUDIES – RISIS RISIS („Research Infrastructure for Research and Innovation Policy Studies“) is a comprehensive research infrastructure for the support and development of science and innovation studies. This is to give new impetus to empirical innovation research and provide an improved information base for the design and evaluation of RTI policy in Europe. The AIT Center for Innovation Systems & Policy is a core partner of RISIS. Thanks to the high acceptance in the scientific community, RISIS entered its second round in January 2019. RISIS II focuses on new functionalities and services in the harmonized databases, such as address-based geocoding, or the ability to apply their own thematic classifications to the data sets through semantic techniques.

EVALUATION OF AUSTRIAN SUPPORT STRUCTURES FOR THE EUROPEAN RTI POLICY As part of a systemic overview, AIT evaluates the Austrian support structures for the European research framework programme Horizon 2020 and the European Research Area (ERA) in Austria, supplemented by the three European initiatives EUREKA, COSME and the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) for the support of research and technology collaborations and the improvement of the environment and competitiveness for SMEs. The study shows that the range of services is overall effective, contributes to increasing the application competence of the researchers and increases the success probability of applications. MONITORING REPORT FOR PARLIAMENT AIT and the Institute of Technology Assessment (ITA) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences prepare a semi-annual monitoring report for the Austrian Parliament to support its work on forward-looking RTI policy. The second report deals with a total of 50 socio-technical developments, eight of which are of particular relevance and are therefore examined more closely: „The End of Public Anonymity“, „Future Shipping Drones?“, „Bio-based Future Materials“, „Urban Mining 4.0“, „Artificial Life“, „Trusted Blockchains“, „Functional Food from the Laboratory“ and „Virtual and Augmented Realities“.

IMPRINT Publisher, media owner AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH Giefinggasse 4, 1210 Vienna, Austria cmc@ait.ac.at, www.ait.ac.at Place of publication Vienna, June 2019 Editorial management Michael H. Hlava, Harald Hornacek Production management Daniel Pepl Editorial staff Florian Hainz Elisabeth Mrakotsky-Kolm Michael Mürling Margit Özelt Fabian Purtscher Vanessa Schuster Pia Stangl Juliane Thoß Design and typesetting Repromedia/Sofia Deak Cover Spirit Design Printing Wograndl, Druckweg 1 7210 Mattersburg, Austria Publisher Verlag Holzhausen GmbH A-1110 Wien, Leberstraße 122

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The AIT client magazine is published three times a year and addresses decision-makers from research, industry, and education. It addresses all key stakeholders of the Austrian innovation and knowledge system.

The AIT yearbook, which presents and showcases current research highlights and issues, vividly presents a representative cross-section of AIT research topics and developmental focus areas.

This annually published review summarizes the most important statements, lectures, breakout sessions and topics of the Alpbach Technology Forum hosted by AIT and ORF Radio Ă&#x2013;1 in a reader-friendly and compact way.

In social media too, AIT is considered one of the appreciated addresses for all those interested in RTI. Current topics and the researchers working on these topics at AIT are presented in an popular scientific way. https://www.linkedin.com/company/ait_2/ https://de-de.facebook.com/AITtomorrow2day/ https://twitter.com/aittomorrow2day?lang=de https://www.youtube.com/user/AITTomorrowToday

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