FURTHER ONGOING VALIDATIONS

IT: SOFTWARE

SPRIND AND THE OPEN SOURCE OFFENSIVE IN AUTONOMOUS DRIVING

What We Do

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because an open source approach will enable software for autonomous driving to be developed in the future in partnership and efficiently in an ecosystem of industry, start-ups and universities. Because autonomous driving will fundamentally change all of our lives and open up a new economic sector. Because a collaborative open source approach opens up synergies between automotive corporations, start-ups and universities. Because future partners are to be provided with a solid platform for further development.

SPRIND AND THE REVOLUTION OF MEDICINE WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Why We Are Committed

Because the goal of the interdisciplinary team of computer scientists, mathematicians and radiologists is to use artificial intelligence to revolutionize the entire pipeline from image data acquisition to the final MRI image.

Easier Access To Mri

We want to provide broad access to MRI technology for all patients. Thus, we focus on the maximum diagnostic

SPRIND AND THE DIGITALIZATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESSES

SPRIND finances the evaluation of how an open source approach to autonomous driving can be implemented. Among other things, work is being done on architecture that supports various fields of application, the functional safety requirements in collaborative development are checked and, together with the first partners, possible business models for participating companies are evaluated.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

A consistent open source approach provides the potential to bypass existing hurdles of proprietary software products and provide a platform for the continuous optimization of autonomous driving. In this way, resources and competences can be orchestrated in a targeted manner, and a powerful ecosystem can emerge from Germany and Europe.

Why We Are Committed

Because the digitalization of laws, standards and regulations promises:

• Acceleration of development

• Significantly higher transparency, especially for citizens

• Automation of the processes based on it with the possibility to improve the underlying laws based on the processed data significance of the MRI images, where the use of artificial intelligence optimizes the examination in such a way that time, contrast media, and thus costs can be saved—for the benefit of the patients.

• Transparency of costs, so that the legal experts can better understand the consequences of new rules and standards.

The Potential We See

Holistic AI allows image optimization that defines a new gold standard and paves the way for new, democratic MRI technology. The approach overcomes existing paradigms and is the cornerstone for tomorrow’s MRI software and hardware.

What We Do

We are looking into the possibility of mapping the life cycle of laws and norms completely digitally, from their creation to their implementation and using a visually oriented methodology. In this context, we consider the benefits for all parties involved, from legislator to users such as public agencies and companies.

CREATING FREE SPACE, SETTING GOALS

Within the scope of the validation, it is to be checked whether the integration and usability of the system can be developed in such a way that a seamless digital workbench with transparency for all involved user perspectives is created, especially for non-experts. Whether the methodology can be expanded will also be checked, so that an open standard for digital standardization and implementation can be established.

Sprind And Open Source Routers

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because the debate about the sovereignty of Germany and Europe is gaining in importance with respect to future technologies. Because the area of data and telecommunications networks in particular is dominated by established manufacturers outside the EU.

CREATE NEW POSSIBILITIES

Established manufacturers keep their systems and interfaces closed so that only their own products are compatible with each other. Regional networks, called campus networks, have therefore had to be equipped with the hardware and software of only one single manufacturer until now. Because a changeover would require an extremely expensive renewal of the entire campus network, the manufacturers ensure continuous sales and can demand high prices. While this situation is extremely advantageous for manufacturers, this presents a challenge for customers due to the high degree of dependence. The manufacturer alone determines whether and when innovations are incorporated into its products.

PROMOTING EUROPE’S INDEPENDENCE

An open 5G multi-service router is to be developed for the manufacturer-independent control of campus networks, which is compatible with a variety of services and interfaces from different manufacturers. The long-term objectives are the development of open network components based on open source and the establishment of an EU-27 manufacturer of telecommunications equipment.

Medicine

Sprind And Nanobodies In Mrna Research

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because there is no antibody to treat diseases directly inside a cell. Because the idea of introducing nanobodies into a cell via mRNA is exceptionally clever and is the next leap in the antibody revolution. Because we have concentrated expertise in nanobody and mRNA research in Germany. Because we want to see more women as founders and actively support them.

What We Do

Turn a big idea into an even bigger opportunity. For the first time, transport mRNA-coded nanobodies into (cancer) cells

Sprind And Dna Origami Technology

using lipid nanoparticles. With Proof of Concept, create a technology platform that makes it possible to create therapeutic approaches for countless (previously difficult or even untreatable) diseases. Pave the way for the company’s future in Germany. Network the founders with the experts from the field.

REFINE OBJECTIVES, THINK A STEP AHEAD

The founders have a clear vision. Together, we can align them optimally and steer them in directions that will continue to be promising in the future. We are working together and know what data and experiments we need for the next steps to justify major investments in the future. We are focusing on this together.

What We Do

The team is focused on preparing and testing the use of DNA origami in living organisms. We have a network of experts at SPRIND who can connect us with the right partners and bring together top talent for the project. Additionally, we are working to design a scalable business plan for this innovative technology.

Prepare A Clinical Trial

Why We Are Committed

We are excited to support the development of DNA origami, as it is a promising technology with the potential to address cancer, one of the leading causes of death worldwide, without causing severe side effects.

Our goal is to support the strategic planning and preparation for a clinical trial. This includes validating the project and ensuring it is ready for initial studies in humans. By carefully planning and executing these critical steps, we can move closer to bringing this technology to the clinic and helping patients.

Sprind And Bacteriophages

Why We Are Committed

Because the result of the project can be the decisive building block in the fight against multi-resistant bacteria. Because we can link research and phage therapy very closely within the project. Because only by bundling application-oriented cutting-edge research and the simultaneous development of phage production early access to phage therapy will be possible.

What We Do

We identify research and development areas to put a completely new type of infection diagnosis and rapidly available individualized phage therapy into a broad clinical application. We identify the most active research groups in Europe and form a top-class research cluster.

We will find out how the approval of phage therapy can be driven forward. We build bridges between the most active phage experts and their networks and thus create an unprecedented, highly effective, application-oriented, Europe-wide research structure.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

A fundamental change in phage research and production to establish phage therapy for the majority of the population by 2030. Establishment of a phage center that combines all areas of research, application and production of phages and consequently can decisively start the fight against pathogenic bacteria. Transferring the benefits of phage application to animal health and food safety (one-health approach) to exploit the potential even better.

CHEMISTRY, BIOLOGY

Sprind And Surface Technology Inspired By Brain Folding

Why We Are Committed

Because the interdisciplinary team from physics, chemistry and computer science is developing a process for the production of desired microstructured surfaces, guided by a digital algorithm.

Because the technology uses principles from brain folding to create novel microstructures. Because dynamic variable microstructures can be realized in this way to open up new applications in microfluidics.

SPRIND AND THE GREEN TRANSFORMATION OF THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because the innovation could enable homogeneous and green methanol synthesis at competitive costs. Because methanol is the base chemical for entire economic sectors. Because more than 99 percent of methanol production is not sustainable, and thus alone is responsible for 0.6 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Because green methanol is a central building block for the decarbonization of industry and logistics.

SPRIND AND THE PRODUCTION OF FOOD FROM WATER, AIR AND ELECTRICITY

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because microorganisms could be used to provide global protein supply from a few thousand reactors. Because population growth and climate change will exacerbate food shortages in the future. Because livestock farming is one of the largest CO 2 emitters. Because another alternative to animal protein sources needs to be created.

What We Do

With the help of SPRIND, the technology is further developed and investigated with regard to specific material properties.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

As a platform technology, the process can act as a foundation and multiplier for many other developments and applications, for example in the field of smart biochips.

WHAT WE DO

We finance a feasibility study on the continuous production of methanol from syngas using a homogeneous catalyst. We lay the foundation for the construction of a production plant and support the first step in the direction of scaling.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

The scalable and competitive production of green methanol. The validation of a quantum chemical simulation approach as the origin of new chemicals, which can be used as a platform technology basis for the development of numerous new production processes.

WHAT WE DO

We finance the technical-economic analysis and support the construction of a first pilot plant for the production of proteins in a bioreactor.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

Create a climate-neutral, area-efficient and resilient protein supply for the world's population. Adaptation of acquired know-how for the production of further nutrients.

Mechanical And Electrical Engineering

Sprind And Autonomous Seawater Desalination

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because industrial and drinking water is already a scarce commodity and is becoming increasingly scarce. Because making small decentralized seawater desalination plants economically competitive with central, large-scale plants can compensate substantially for smaller economies of scale in many regions.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

The complete system is based on the combination of existing technologies. A newly developed steam turbine is built in, which converts some of the heat input into electrical power to operate the entire plant. In this way, solar-thermally heated seawater can be desalinated cost-effectively; the simple scaling ensures decentralized use. In the current validation study, the previously simulated process is to be confirmed by tests on a function demonstrator.

CREATING STABLE LONG-TERM PERSPECTIVES

The low-energy approach can create an autonomous seawater desalination plant. Its use in currently arid regions can provide a long-term, stable perspective for many people around the world.

Construction

SPRIND AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

The realization of a future carbon-free construction industry and a reduction in thermal and electrical energy in the manufacturing process, which affects the entire construction industry. Materials that are reusable and durably integrated into building as well as enable resourceconserving and more cost-effective construction.

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because the construction industry needs to be revolutionized by using building materials that avoid greenhouse gases. Because we want to avoid the use of cement, which is one of the largest drivers of carbon dioxide emissions in the world, and use sustainable raw materials, which are available in sufficient quantities in Europe. Because we can also store carbon dioxide with these building materials and thereby significantly reduce our carbon dioxide footprint.

SPRIND AND INSULATION OF THE 21ST CENTURY

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because the developed insulating material based on evacuated glass structures could achieve an outstanding insulating effect at low costs. Because households use approx. 70 percent of their energy for heating. Because conventional insulation materials only meet the current efficiency standards in high thicknesses. Because existing buildings often cannot be retrofitted with conventional insulation materials.

WHAT WE DO

We awarded a validation contract and support a team in the Carbon-to-Value Challenge to find a cement substitute. This makes it possible to develop a binder which has similar or better properties than cement and is even carbon-neutral or carbon-negative. We identify suitable market solutions and promote innovation on various levels. We support teams in the Challenge by connecting them with each other, but also with external experts, to create a supportive network.

What We Do

We finance the validation and optimization of novel vacuum insulation panels that can be produced cost-effectively and without high energy consumption.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

Enable the energy-efficient renovation of more than ten million existing buildings. Significant reduction in energy consumption and heating costs despite space-saving insulation. Establishment of a sustainable, recyclable, cost-effective insulation material on the global market.

SPRIND AND THE DISRUPTION OF REINFORCED CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION

What We Do

As part of the ongoing validation study, the theoretical potential of the novel monolithic steel mat is analyzed in actual practice based on several test specimens in collaboration with a test facility.

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because enabling high-quality reinforced concrete plants while reducing the necessary CO 2 emissions is an essential argument for the project to disrupt reinforced concrete structures. Due to a novel manufacturing process the monolithic reinforcement steel mats get more stable and enable significant saving of steel and concrete while maintaining the same degree of use.

SPRIND AND DEMAND-BASED CONTROL FOR HEATING SYSTEMS

THINKING A STEP AHEAD

The construction and the shape of the monolithic steel mat can permit additional galvanizing, for example, and significantly increase the service life of buildings exposed to weathering as a result. This provides a long-term perspective and plan for the future. Thanks to the competitive use of high-quality steel, the local steel industry can benefit and be maintained.

What We Do

The project is investigating the replacement of a sensitive system for underfloor heating, which is based on the user’s feeling of warmth and can be used to significantly increase energy efficiency in the building sector. Within the scope of a validation study, the effects of fast, proactive and room-wise intelligent underfloor heating are quantitatively simulated and the savings effect determined.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

WHY WE ARE COMMITTED

Because 16 percent of Germany’s total CO 2 emissions come from the building sector, and 60 percent of building energy is needed for heating. Because the potential of building systems technology to save energy is far from being exhausted, and heating systems can be adapted much faster than building envelopes.

By means of a relatively simple and small intervention, this demand-oriented regulation, combined with several measures, can achieve an increase in efficiency of up to 30 percent in new and existing buildings. The increase in efficiency results in a saving of several thousand tons of CO2 while at the same time increasing comfort thanks to rooms that are neither too hot nor too cold.

ENERGY

Sprind And Batteries Free Of Conflict Commodities Why We Are Committed

Because alternative energy storage systems, which at the same time do not use conflict commodities, make a significant contribution to the energy transition. Because the proton accumulator project introduces a new battery, which is basically a modified lead-acid battery. Because the lead grid electrode is replaced by carbon fibers and the cathode is completely lead-free. In combination with a new electrolyte and a ceramic separator, a battery free of conflict commodities is created.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

Conventional batteries usually use conflict commodities such as lithium or cobalt, which are usually difficult to recycle. The aim of the new technologies is to achieve a price of one cent per charging cycle and kilowatt hour in order to provide an inexpensive energy storage system. The lead content is to be completely eliminated while maintaining the existing production method.

Create Alternative Possibilities

As part of a validation study, SPRIND tries to find answers to questions about the life span, the behavior during fast charging and the actual scalability of the battery. The aim is to create an alternative way of storing energy, while maintaining the world-wide production and recycling infrastructure for lead-acid batteries.

Sprind And Memristors For The Computers Of The Future

On the visionary path to computing with real numbers, new solutions are being developed for AI, for example for edge computing in real time and for error-free clustering as well as for certifiable classification with artificial neural networks.

Why We Are Committed

Because hardware building blocks for digital information technology are reaching their limits in terms of energy efficiency, learning rate, miniaturization, parallelizabilty, and accuracy. Because the interdisciplinary team has developed a new memristor that can process as well as store data. Because memristors enable new resource-efficient computer architectures for analog information technology.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

The memristor material has the potential to create countless new solutions and applications. This would enable us to take the lead in Germany in a future key technology.

MEMRISTORS MADE IN EUROPE

The aim is to establish a new value chain in Europe, which produces new innovations in microelectronics as an enabler.

Other Fields

Sprind And The Fight Against Drought

What We Do

Why We Are Committed

Because the ionization of the ambient air intensifies the formation of rain clouds and consequently increases the absolute amounts of precipitation. Because the total damage caused by the heat and drought summers in 2018 and 2019, in Germany only, add up to almost 35 billion euros. Because soils were extremely dry, and waterways were only navigable to a limited extent in 2022. Because drought causes poverty and hunger worldwide.

We validate the ionization technology and check whether an ionization of the ambient air is actually achieved. We finance the construction of a mobile unit to increase the potential effects. We support the planning of a field test for final validation.

THE POTENTIAL WE SEE

Drought will become an increasingly serious problem also for Europe, because of climate change, with far-reaching consequences. An approach to enhance rainfall creates enormous added value for agriculture, logistics and forest owners, and, at the same time it counteracts the consequences of climate change.