Looking back at the recent Zukunft.Lab.Schwarzwald sessions held in Offenburg, which have fostered knowledge and technology exchange across the Upper Rhine region.
What are the Zukunft.Lab.Schwarzwald events?
They are monthly two-hour visits designed to explore a research institute, gain insight into its activities, and identify concrete collaboration opportunities. The program includes lab presentations, direct exchanges with researchers, and networking sessions all in a short, dynamic format aimed at bringing research and industry closer together.
1st LabVisits – Biomechanics at work, in healthcare and in sports: visit to the Institute for Biomechanics and Motion Studies (IBMS)
On January 29, 2026, a visit to the Institute for Biomechanics and Motion Studies (IBMS) gave participants in-depth insights into how biomechanics is applied in the workplace, healthcare, and sports.
Participants learned how IBMS research contributes to enhancing performance, preventing injuries and falls, and improving human technology interaction. In sports, particular emphasis is placed on performance optimization, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
The institute also presented innovative approaches to motion analysis beyond laboratory settings, combining advanced methodologies with data-driven research to generate insights valuable both for science and real-world applications.
2nd LabVisits – Exploring applied robotics for industrial innovation at the Work-Life Robotics Institute (WLRI)
On February 24, 2026, the Work-Life Robotics Institute (WLRI) opened its doors, offering participants valuable insights into applied robotics and its role in driving industrial innovation.
Participants discovered how WLRI develops economically viable robotic solutions tailored to real-world industrial applications. Positioned at the interface between humans and machines, the institute focuses on designing effective interactions within socio-technical systems through practice-oriented research.
Key research areas include lean-oriented industrial and collaborative robotics, human–robot interaction in real-world conditions, and the development of components produced through additive manufacturing. These approaches aim to create tangible value for companies while opening up new opportunities for innovation and technology transfer.
3rd LabVisits – Exploring advanced drone robotics and radar technologies at the Institute of Unmanned Aerial Systems (IUAS) in Offenburg
On March 26, 2026, a visit to IUAS offered participants an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge technologies in drone robotics and radar.
The participants discovered how IUAS develops application-driven solutions in the fields of unmanned aerial systems and high-frequency radar technologies. Beyond conventional flight operations, the institute showcased advances in drone robotics (magnetic perching systems and UAVs equipped with active tools).
IUAS also highlighted its expertise in radar and antenna technologies for automotive, medical, and industrial applications. With state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, the institute conducts electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, dielectric material characterization, and high-frequency measurements exceeding 100 GHz.
Coming soon – 2 LabVisits in Germany
More information will be shared shortly.