In preparation for the 2025 federal election, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has published a series of position papers focusing on the theme of “competitiveness.” These papers address the most important technological topics, describe current political and economic challenges, identify necessary measures, and put forward concrete political recommendations to strengthen Germany’s competitiveness.
The position paper “Digital Industrial Location” focuses on recommendations for increasing the level of digitalization and enhancing the flexibility of Germany as an industrial location. It addresses the strengthening of data spaces and infrastructures, 5G/6G research, AI infrastructures, and forward-looking production systems based on autonomous robotics and the use of concepts such as the Industrial Metaverse.
In Focus: The Industrial Metaverse
Within the paper, the Industrial Metaverse is identified as one of the central research policy topics. For the acceptance and effectiveness of metaverses, harmonizing the human–machine interface is essential—only then can intuitive and efficient use be achieved. This harmonization must be closely linked with existing concepts and software stacks for Industry 4.0 and digital twins, which are already contributing to the digitalization of industry.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. André Stork, Head of the Automotive Industry Sector at the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research (IGD), contributed his expertise to these topic areas.
“I would like to thank the administrative office of the Fraunhofer ICT Group for involving me in the process of developing the position paper. This made it possible to incorporate Fraunhofer IGD’s experience and expertise in the digitalization of industrial processes across product development, production, and downstream phases of the product life cycle,” says Prof. André Stork.
Technologies with Which Fraunhofer IGD Supports Germany as an Industrial Location
The experience and expertise contributed include, in particular, automated geometry processing, fast simulation for digital twins, the digital process chain for 3D printing, fully automated 3D capture, automated optical quality assurance, visual control centers, and the use of XR in training, education, and maintenance.
These technologies enable real-time interaction with production processes in virtual environments. This makes it possible, among other things, to optimize real production workflows, test automated quality assurance, and promote collaboration between companies.
Through its research in the field of visual computing, Fraunhofer IGD actively develops new solutions for development, production, and quality monitoring processes, thereby contributing to safeguarding Germany’s position as an industrial location.
Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD