News Category: Press Release

Top supercomputers strengthen UN SDGs and global sustainability
The new network aims to broaden access to supercomputing, data and software infrastructures, and will operate at the intersection of public and private sectors, academia, and civil society. In addition to ELLIS, ICAIN’s founding members include the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, ETH Zurich, the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre, Data Science Africa and the Finnish IT Center for Science, which is the hosting member of the LUMI consortium.

Supercomputing facilities is essential for AI-based technologies

Artificial intelligence has a profound economic and societal impact on a global scale and can help combat challenges such as climate change and pandemics. However, not all players, especially in the global south, have the same access to expertise and computing resources which are crucial for the development and implementation of innovative AI-based technologies.

This is where ICAIN comes in: By broadening access to such resources, the founders of ICAIN aim to enable international research projects that benefit society as a whole and are in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With the European LUMI and the Swiss ‘Alps’, the new network includes two of the most powerful supercomputers in the world. All founding partners will further contribute to ICAIN by sharing their AI expertise.

Powering the future of AI excellence internationally

ICAIN is set to have a strong impact on AI entrepreneurs and scientists internationally, providing them with the knowledge and necessary tools needed to push their AI advancements to unprecedented heights. This initiative positions Europe as a global leader in AI excellence, fostering innovation and collaboration to drive the capabilities of AI forward.

ICAIN is driven by the recognition of artificial intelligence as a crucial technology with the potential to address global challenges. The initiative aims to ensure inclusive participation in AI research and viewing AI solutions as global public goods accessible to all. It prioritizes addressing major scientific and social issues in AI collaboratively and transparently. This also illustrates the importance of collaborative efforts between politics and science to ensure that AI remains at the forefront of future developments.

Cyber Valley Community Member ELLIS joins forces

„ELLIS is a pan-European AI network aiming to create outstanding conditions for AI researchers. More than 1,000 top scientists and leading AI research institutions such as ETH Zurich, Cambridge, Oxford, Paris and Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems are part of ELLIS“, says Bernhard Schölkopf, Director of the ELLIS, Director of Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, and Cyber Valley Board Member. „We will contribute our network’s scientific expertise to provide meaningful input on how the compute resources get used, ensuring that the major scientific and social issues of AI are tackled jointly and transparently. We like to think that having ELLIS as a founding partner and co-initiator will be essential to the success of the proposal.”

Launch highlights

ICAIN’s launch was announced at a joint press conference at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 17, 2024, followed by an inaugural panel discussion:

Panelists
- State Secretary Alexandre Fasel, Swiss Foreign Ministry;
- Prof. Bernhard Schölkopf, Director of the ELLIS-Institute, Director Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, and Cyber Valley Board Member
- ETH Vice President Prof. Christian Wolfrum;
- Prof. Ciira Maina, Director of Data Science for Africa
Fully operational by 2025

The ICAIN initiative aims to achieve full completion by 2025. As part of their objectives for the current year, they are actively seeking additional partners, including research institutes, international organizations, companies, or foundations, to join their mission and provide active support. These partners may contribute financial support or offer contributions in kind, such as computing power or specialized expertise.

Throughout the ongoing incubation phase, governance rule, coordination processes, and financing for ICAIN will be formulated. Simultaneously, the first pilot projects, in collaboration with other entities, will begin to gather valuable experience in partnership collaboration. By 2025, ICAIN aims to have all its organizational structures firmly established.

Media contact for Cyber Valley at AI House Davos:

Hazel Rowland

Cyber Valley Media Manager

Hazel.Rowland@cyber-valley.de

About Cyber Valley

Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading center for excellence in artificial intelligence and modern robotics. Its mission and public mandate are to advocate for research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. Cyber Valley encourages entrepreneurship by uniting scientific excellence with innovation and technology transfer. In addition, Cyber Valley facilitates critical reflection on the ethical and social implications of AI through public engagement. Cyber Valley envisions a future in which the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.

The Cyber Valley Community is a network of AI researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and start-ups, alongside partners from academia, industry, and society. Cyber Valley GmbH is owned by the State of Baden-Württemberg and the Max Planck Gesellschaft. It acts as the service provider, central organizer, and host for the Cyber Valley Community. While Cyber Valley GmbH is located in Stuttgart and Tübingen, it operates across Baden-Württemberg with a global reach, attracting the best talent from across the world to create the future with AI.

About ELLIS

ELLIS is a pan-European AI network of excellence. It builds upon machine learning as the driver for modern AI and aims to secure lasting international leadership of AI made in Europe by connecting top researchers in this field and by creating a multi-centric AI research laboratory. Founded in 2018, ELLIS has grown into a network that counts 41 ELLIS units at world-class institutions in 16 countries, 16 ELLIS programs and a pan-European PhD program. The members of ELLIS are committed to shaping the future of AI in Europe by pushing the scientific and technological boundaries for human-centered, beneficial and safe AI.
Januar 16, 2024
Join the global forum for AI progress at AI House Davos
- AI House Davos will bring together leaders in industry, civil society, government, the investing community, and academics to drive the global conversation on artificial intelligence.
- Confirmed speakers include: Yann LeCun (VP of Meta), Kay Firth-Butterfield (CEO of Good Tech Advisory), Amy Webb (CEO of Future Today Institute), Arvind Krishna (CEO of IBM), Jonas Andrulis (CEO of Aleph Alpha), Theresa May (former Prime Minister of the UK), and Christian Lindner (Germany’s Finance Minister).
- Cyber Valley, contributor to the AI House program, invites you to its sessions.
Davos, Switzerland. We are pleased to announce the upcoming opening of AI House Davos during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting from January 15-19, 2024. Registration for a packed calendar of events is now open on the AI House website.
Understanding AI’s current and future capabilities has never been more important. AI will undoubtedly be the dominant discussion at this year’s WEF Annual Meeting, and AI House Davos will be a crucial global forum to bring the deepest discussions on AI to life, from how AI can benefit humankind to how world economies can provide a catalyst for sustainable innovation.
The AI House will bring together leaders across diverse sectors — from academics to industry, as well as government, and entrepreneurship — to facilitate deep discussions and collaboration geared toward safeguarding the future of artificial intelligence. The AI House is a dedicated platform with a multidisciplinary and multi-stakeholder approach working to address the challenges and opportunities facing the artificial intelligence ecosyste. This includes conversations surrounding responsible growth, scaling, and regulation.
Speakers at AI House include Yann LeCun (VP of Meta), Kay Firth-Butterfield (CEO of Good Tech Advisory), Amy Webb (CEO of Future Today Institute), Arvind Krishna (CEO of IBM), Jonas Andrulis (CEO of Aleph Alpha), Theresa May (former Prime Minister of the UK), Christian Lindner (Germany’s Finance Minister), and many more. Confirmed speakers can be found on the website.

Cyber Valley events at AI House Davos
AI House Davos events with Cyber Valley contributions
- Jan 16, 12:30-13:30: Open Source
- Jan 17, 13:40-14:00: Launch of an international computation and AI network of excellence initiative
Five major themes will be covered throughout the week. Monday will focus on the current state of AI. An Opening Ceremony will take place where the AI House initiators will discuss the activities planned for the week. On Tuesday, a dive into AI’s opportunities and risks will take place. Wednesday will focus on applications of AI. Thursday will look toward the next frontier. On Friday, the program will conclude with a review of the week and a look ahead to the future.
Members of the press should join the waitlists for the specific sessions at AI House they wish to attend. Invitations are at the discretion of the session organizer. Press inquiries about AI House should be sent to steven.perlberg@merantix.com.
AI House is a joint initiative led by Merantix, ETH AI Center, Swisscom, UTokyo Institute for AI and Beyond, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), and G42. AI House partners and sponsors include the European Commission, European Innovation Council, European AI Forum, Automation Anywhere, EPFL, EY, TÜV AI Lab, Cyber Valley and many more. Forbes, Handelsblatt, and Devex are the media partners.
The AI House is perfectly positioned in the heart of the Davos promenade. Just 750 meters from the congress center, this central location ensures seamless access to all the key events in Davos. Find AI House on Promenade 68, Davos Platz.
Faheem Ahamed, Group CMO of G42, said: “At G42, we embrace a global, inclusive approach to the future of AI. As the Initiator Partner of AI House Davos, we eagerly anticipate engaging with organizations and individuals who share our dedication to leading-edge scientific research, transformative AI applications, and effective regulation. Together, we can accelerate AI's positive impact on society and the global economy, cultivating an ecosystem that fuels innovation while steadfastly upholding ethical standards in the advancement and integration of this transformative technology.”
Masami Hagiya, Director of UTokyo Institute for AI and Beyond, said: “As AI technologies spread, all aspects of human society are affected and need to change to build a better world. The multi-stakeholder approach of AI House is a suitable framework for discussing issues from different perspectives of human society. The panel on ‘AI Governance and Safety: G7 Hiroshima AI process’ is a typical topic involving multiple stakeholders. Also, UTokyo Institute for AI and Beyond will host ‘AI and Higher Education,’ focusing on how higher education should evolve as generative AI gradually replaces many aspects of human intelligence. ‘Harmony of Coexistence’ will touch on human intelligence and AI from various perspectives.”
Dr. Rasmus Rothe, CTO and Co-Founder of Merantix, said: “What the AI landscape really needs now in order to thrive is a vibrant community bringing together all the different stakeholders, from investors, startups, academics, regulators, government leaders, and corporates, to discuss AI’s future, learn about AI’s current application in the real world, and create some meaningful new collaborations leveraging AI’s potential. That’s why we initiated AI House, and it’s why Davos is the perfect venue for these discussions.”
Evan Sparks, Vice President and General Manager for AI Solutions and Supercomputing Cloud, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, said: “AI will have a transformative societal impact. As a fundamental technology, AI will solve complex scientific challenges and make breakthroughs in drug discovery, provide accurate medical diagnosis faster, predict and prevent catastrophic weather events, and advance renewable energy to help us transition to a net-zero world. However, to make AI beneficial to humanity, we must make it accessible, sustainable, and responsible, and the power of collaboration will help us get there. As co-initiators of AI House Davos, we look forward to being a part of an important initiative that will bring together stakeholders across private and public sectors to design, develop, and deliver efficient and ethical AI solutions to benefit the greater good.”
Dr. Alexander Ilic, Founder and Executive Director of ETH AI Center, said: “In the imminent future, we anticipate many breakthroughs in AI research to catalyze significant advancements towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals – marking a new era of progress and innovation. From education to healthcare to sustainability, AI is a technology that should be accessible, trustworthy, and safe for everybody. The AI House Davos therefore serves as a central hub, fostering and expediting collaboration between global key stakeholders from academia, industry, NGOs, start-ups, and civil society, all dedicated to realizing our shared vision.”
Laure Willemin, Executive Vice President of Data, Analytics & AI at Swisscom, said: “The AI House Davos is the start of a joint journey towards a common understanding of AI. Switzerland is the right place to host the AI pioneers from all over the world to meet, connect and shape AI. As one of the most competitive and innovative countries, with its renowned universities, Switzerland plays a leading role in AI research and AI development. Swisscom is excited to be part of this journey and committed to develop trusted AI solutions to the benefit of Switzerland.”
More information about the AI House and its initiators, partners, and sponsors can be found here.
Media contact:
Steven Perlberg
Head of Communications at Merantix
steven.perlberg@merantix.com

Media contact for Cyber Valley at AI House Davos:
Hazel Rowland
Cyber Valley Media Manager
Hazel.Rowland@cyber-valley.de
Januar 10, 2024
Expanding the Cyber Valley Start-up Network: Welcoming mine&make and nuvus

Mine&make GmbH has successfully crafted an AI-based business development platform tailored to individual requirements. The company provides customized insights into business opportunities, empowering each customer to expand across diverse industries. Mine&make not only identifies these opportunities but also undertakes the responsibility of carrying out and implementing them. Leveraging artificial intelligence, the platform analyzes individual products and technical competencies to to unveil prospects such as new applications, adjacent functionalities, new technologies, expansion into untapped market fields, and the formulation of high-potential product strategies.
The platform, powered by a AI-based Insights Engine, serves multifunctional purposes in research and development (R&D), marketing, and sales. Mine&make is dedicated to maximizing the business potential of its clients, offering avenues for opportunity development through workshops, insights, and projects.
Image: mine&make GmbH
Nuvus GmbH specializes in guiding clients through the seamless implementation and integration of cutting-edge technologies, leveraging AI software testing. Their core expertise lies in testing, integration, and security, complemented by proficiency in software development and automotive engineering.
As a premier testing service provider, nuvus offers a comprehensive suite of solutions, encompassing verification and validation services, defect management and configuration, error analysis, and traceability. Additionally, they excel in planning and executing test drives. Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, nuvus provides invaluable support in bug prediction, resource optimization, process automation, and machine learning.
Image: nuvus GmbH
By becoming part of the Cyber Valley Start-up Network, nuvus and mine&make have joined a vibrant AI community dedicated to advancing technology and promoting collaboration among start-ups, researchers, and industry partners.

Dezember 19, 2023
Cyber Valley welcomes vialytics to its Start-up Network

With already over 300 municipalities across seven countries using their system, vialytics is setting the standard for AI-based road management systems. The company's cloud software has proven instrumental in streamlining processes for municipal administrations, providing actionable insights that contribute to more efficient road maintenance strategies.
One of their contributions to the field is its artificial intelligence system designed for objective, rapid, and accurate analysis of asphalt surfaces. This innovation addresses the significant cost and time associated with traditional road condition assessments. By leveraging AI algorithms, the start-up ensures precise evaluation of asphalt conditions to be able to make informed decisions for optimal road maintenance planning.
"In the dynamic landscape of road management, vialytics is proud to lead the way with cutting-edge AI solutions that revolutionize the industry," says Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist Danilo Jovicic-Albrecht at vialytics. "Our commitment to innovation through AI and sustainability aligns perfectly with the values of the Cyber Valley Start-up Network. We are excited to collaborate within this growing AI ecosystem in Southern Germany."
Through joining the Cyber Valley Start-up Network, vialytics is now part of a dynamic AI community that is focused on driving technological advancements and fostering collaboration between start-ups, researchers, and industry leaders.

Dezember 7, 2023
MATVIS joins the Cyber Valley Start-up Network

MATVIS provides expert guidance to customers seeking to integrate AI into their business to optimize processes, increase efficiency, and enhance transparency. The start-up focuses on providing technology solutions for businesses developing regulatory-compliant AI. The company’s academic background in machine learning, computer science, electrical engineering, and economics means that MATVIS can work on implementing compliance processes such as AI risk management and certification systems in high-risk applications.
Established in 2023, MATVIS was driven by a growing demand for future-proof AI solutions that adhere to continuously evolving standards in the field of AI development. In response, MATVIS offers a platform solution to address the potential problems that AI companies may encounter in the future.
“We all felt that some sort of regulation for AI must be coming at some point but we couldn’t imagine what the future of AI will be like”, says Wolfgang Glatz, MATVIS’s co-founder. “From a present perspective, regulatory-compliant AI will be a chance to establish the trademark of trustworthy AI, made in Europe.”

About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading research consortium in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics. Cyber Valley has a mission and a public mandate to advocate for entrepreneurship, research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. The company envisions a future where the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
The Cyber Valley Community brings together partners from science, industry, and society, along with AI researchers and entrepreneurs. The Cyber Valley GmbH is funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg and acts as the central organizer, service provider, and host for the community. While the GmbH operates from Stuttgart and Tübingen, Cyber Valley has a larger scope: As a national and European driving force, it attracts the best people from all over the world to create the future with AI.
About the Cyber Valley Start-up Network
Cyber Valley's Start-up Network builds and fosters a community of AI entrepreneurs. Members enjoy exclusive access to a wide-ranging network, connecting them with AI researchers, investors, corporations, and fellow start-ups. Members are required to have a connection to Cyber Valley, either by being located in Baden-Württemberg, or by being members or alumni of Cyber Valley partner institutions. The core of their business model must be centered around intelligent systems. The Start-up Network is growing continuously. More information about the current number of start-ups and the application process: cyber-valley.de/start-up-network.
About MATVIS
MATVIS is the reliable partner for transferring future technologies into efficient and reliable solutions for the present so that companies and organizations can achieve their ecological, economic, and social goals in the best possible way. MATVIS’s know-how empowers their partners with the implementation of regulatory-compliant AI. We advise on potentials with Al-based optimization of processes and create sustained compliance concepts that increase efficiency, enhance transparency, and enable the achievement of sustainability goals.

Oktober 31, 2023
Voiceagenten grows the digital voice assistant market

As a service provider, Voiceagenten was founded to demonstrate the capabilities and potential of digital voice assistants. The company creates digital interaction opportunities for various industries with the help of Amazon Alexa. Voiceagenten’s tools combine their voice technology expertise with the latest developments in artificial intelligence (AI).
The emergence of large language models (LLMs) represents a game-changer in the voice technology field. Voiceagenten recognizes the potential of these models in enhancing the efficacy and precision of voice assistants. Rooted in sophisticated AI algorithms, LLMs empower digital assistants to comprehend and respond with an almost human-like understanding, bridging the gap between machine and natural conversation. The start-up integrates LLMs to elevate the user experience, ensuring seamless interactions and more intuitive responses. It's not just about voice commands anymore; it's about engaging in meaningful dialogues with technology.
Image: Voiceagenten
Voiceagenten ensures that each project and application is flexible and tailored to the requirements of the client. They have already offered several services to their customers, including a time tracking service where employees can record their working time and create a time stamp with a simple voice command. For another client, they developed a high-quality forest bathing experience at home by generating an audio experience with forest meditating sounds to ensure complete tranquility.
The company also offers a professional audio transcription service that can transcribe text in 57 languages. This can be used for creating and publishing podcasts, interviews, videos, and more. The advancement of digital voice assistant capabilities through artificial intelligence offers distinct advantages that can be customized to suit individual requirements.
CEO of Voiceagenten, Paulos Mesghina, additionally remarks, "At Voiceagenten, we're revolutionizing digital interactions through AI-driven voice solutions. Every command shapes a more conversational future."

About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading research consortium in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics. It has a mission and a public mandate to advocate for entrepreneurship, research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. The company envisions a future where the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
The Cyber Valley Community brings together partners from science, industry, and society, along with AI researchers and entrepreneurs. The Cyber Valley GmbH is funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg and acts as the central organizer, service provider, and host for the community. While the GmbH operates from Stuttgart and Tübingen, Cyber Valley has a larger scope: As a national and European driving force, it attracts the best people from all over the world to create the future with AI.
About the Cyber Valley Start-up Network
With the Cyber Valley Start-up Network, Cyber Valley is building and fostering a community of AI entrepreneurs. Members enjoy exclusive access to a wide-ranging network, connecting them with AI researchers, investors, corporations, and fellow start-ups. Members are required to have a connection to Cyber Valley, either by being located in Baden-Württemberg, or by being members or alumni of Cyber Valley partner institutions. The core of their business model must be centered around intelligent systems. The Start-up Network is growing continuously. More information about the current number of start-ups and the application process: cyber-valley.de/start-up-network.
About Voiceagenten
Voiceagenten is at the forefront of voice technology. As experts in Large Language Models and Prompt Engineering, we offer AI-driven speech solutions that will propel your business into the future.

Oktober 24, 2023
AI House Davos: Leading the Global Conversation on AI

Das AI House Davos bringt internationale Branchenführende, Tech-Gründer:innen, Forschende, Unternehmen, Investor:innen und politische Entscheidungsträger:innen zusammen. Gemeinsam reflektieren wir über die Auswirkungen von künstlicher Intelligenz auf unsere Welt. Diskutiere mit Cyber Valley im schweizerischen Davos vom 15. bis 19. Januar 2024 während des Weltwirtschaftsforums, wie KI die Welt von morgen gestalten wird.

Diese Pressemitteilung ist auf Englisch verfügbar.

The AI House connects industry leaders, tech founders, research, companies, investors and policy makers to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on the world. Join us in Davos during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting from January 15 to 19 to discuss how AI will shape the world of tomorrow.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of AI House Davos 2024: A Global Forum for AI Progress during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting. AI House Davos will convene thought-leaders, academics, industry experts, government officials, investors, and entrepreneurs to foster discussions that will influence the responsible scaling, integration, and regulation of artificial intelligence. This inclusive and multidisciplinary platform will embrace diverse stakeholders, including academia, government, industry, finance, civil society, and entrepreneurship. It aims to provide solutions for addressing the global impact of artificial intelligence.

The AI House

AI was one of the main topics during the last annual meeting of the World Economic Forum and the conversation has only accelerated since then. Today, there is an urgent need for a global discussion that includes policymakers, academics, civil society, venture, and industry. The AI House Davos provides an independent platform to have this global conversation on neutral ground and invites you to join us as we embark on this remarkable endeavor.

During the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, the AI House Davos will unite prominent figures to engage in discussions on the most critical issues concerning artificial intelligence, exploring its impact on society. By establishing a long-term presence and fostering a community of AI thought-leaders during the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, the AI House will have enduring global effects on a long-term scale. Together with other partners, sponsors, contributors, and media partners, we are poised to make a significant impact on the future of AI.

The Leaders of the Global Conversation on AI

AI House Davos is a joint initiative by Merantix and the ETH AI Center together with Swisscom, UTokyo Institute for AI and Beyond, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). Cyber Valley is a contributor to the planned program.

Stay tuned for more updates, and mark your calendars for AI House Davos from January 15 to January 19, 2024. More information can be found here: Cyber Valley at AI House Davos

Media contact

Dr. Hazel Rowland
Media Manager, Cyber Valley GmbH
Email: hazel.rowland@cyber-valley.de

Oktober 19, 2023
Cyber Valley ist der WIN Charta Initiative beigetreten
Cyber Valley's WIN Charta focus
In 2024, Cyber Valley GmbH's efforts towards future sustainability will center around the key principles outlined in the WIN Charta:
- "We promote innovations for products and services that increase sustainability and underline the innovative potential of Baden-Württemberg's economy."
- "We generate added value for the region in which we do business."
Cyber Valley firmly believes that long-term successful, entrepreneurial action can only be achieved in harmony with the region and the environment. As an ambassador for entrepreneurial spirit, Cyber Valley GmbH has a public mandate to strengthen the research, development, application, and acceptance of methods and technologies of intelligent systems and modern robotics. The three units of Cyber Valley GmbH; Innovation & Economy, Communication & Society, and Management & Science, reflect and implement this mission. Both guiding principles address the core of the mission, which is anchored in the shareholder agreement of Cyber Valley GmbH.
What is the WIN Charta?
As a voluntary commitment, companies who are part of the WIN Charta adhere to twelve guiding principles that cover the three dimensions of sustainability – economic, ecological, and social. The WIN Charta formulates common core values and provides guidance for the implementation of sustainability in a regional and local context.
The WIN Charta exists since 2014, with more than 300 companies dedicated to the mission. One of the aims of this management system is to support the knowledge transfer of climate-conscious and sustainably operating companies in Baden-Württemberg and to contribute to business networking. Sustainable management is to be recognized and made visible to the public through annual reports.
Starting in 2024, the WIN Charta will become "KLIMAWIN" and fulfill further requirements (See here for more information). For general questions regarding the WIN Charta and KLIMAWIN, please contact the Baden-Württemberg Climate Protection Strategy team: KLIMAWIN@nachhaltigkeitsstrategie.de.
About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading center for excellence in artificial intelligence and modern robotics. Its mission and public mandate are to advocate for research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. Cyber Valley encourages entrepreneurship by uniting scientific excellence with innovation and technology transfer. In addition, Cyber Valley facilitates critical reflection on the ethical and social implications of AI through public engagement. Cyber Valley envisions a future in which the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
2022: WIN-Charta-Zielkonzept_2022_Cyber_Valley_GmbH.pdf
Current:
Oktober 18, 2023
Bionic Intelligence in Cyber Valley
The new Center for Bionic Intelligence Tübingen Stuttgart (BITS) aims to optimize the interaction between humans and technical systems in a fundamentally new way.
Scientists from the University of Stuttgart, the University of Tübingen, the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics are conducting research on intelligent bionic systems that will aid understanding and treatment of certain diseases of the central nervous system. Diagnoses will become more accurate, treatments more efficient and the illnesses more tolerable. Those affected by such disorders already use orthoses or communication aids. However, these systems cannot fully adapt themselves to the needs of the patient or the environment in order to fully compensate limitations or restore failed bodily functions. In interdisciplinary projects, BITS members develop individually tailored medical aids.
Bionic systems can be found almost everywhere in everyday life: A Velcro fastener on a backpack is inspired by the burdock, suction cups are modeled on the form of an octopus tentacle. Both inventions are based on phenomena from the animal and plant world. Researchers at the University of Stuttgart, the University of Tübingen, the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics are taking this one step further: Their vision is to optimize interaction between humans and technical systems so that, by using various signals and intelligent physical principles, the technical system is able to provide support when humans need it. The users are in control at all times.
"We want to push the boundaries of what has been possible until now," says Professor Syn Schmitt, BITS spokesperson at the University of Stuttgart. "With bionic systems, such as novel robotic prostheses, we aim to create new intelligent diagnostic and treatment options that offer support in everyday life for patients with physical and neurological limitations."

Diagnosis and treatment: Smart, flexible and ethical
Technical assistance systems are already being used for therapeutic purposes, but they fall far short of the efficiency and flexibility that would be required to replace missing or impaired functions, or to support the diagnosis and treatment of complex mental disorders. The scientists of the newly founded BITS are jointly researching the development of bionic systems to adapt them to meet patients' individual needs, to compensate for impaired motor function in the everyday lives of those affected, and to support diagnostic and rehabilitation procedures. Social and ethical dimensions are considered from the very beginning.
"The goal is to develop alternatives that work perfectly for individuals," adds Professor Martin Giese, BITS spokesperson at the University of Tübingen. "Forging efficient interactions between people and technology, requires not only optimal data and information processing, but also the exploitation of intelligent physical principles in people and the technical system."
The challenge here is to design technical components that interact with the nervous systems and muscular apparatus in a highly efficiently way and that adapt flexibly and individually to the patient's position. "To do this, we rely on functional materials that respond to different body-specific stimuli," adds Professor Sabine Ludwigs, also a BITS spokesperson at the University of Stuttgart.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: From biomedicine to robotics and computer science
The key to success is interdisciplinary cooperation between experts from different fields, such as biomedicine, neuromechanics, materials science, soft and biorobotics, physics, electrical engineering, social science, ethics, neuroscience, and computer science. "Each and every member of our team is an expert in their field," says Schmitt. "We try to transfer all this knowledge into workable solutions that allow people to interact with technical systems on multiple levels. We believe that affected individuals will benefit from such systems, and that science will gain a better understanding of humans."
The research work within BITS encompasses everything from robotic orthoses that function as an everyday aid for people with muscle tremors, for example, to wearable sensors to improve diagnostics for obsessive-compulsive disorders, to so-called in-body micro- and nano-robots that can transport drugs specifically to the brain or enable new forms of brain stimulation. "At BITS, we want to build on previous successes and strengthen our collaborations to permanently establish intelligent systems in medicine, treatment and rehabilitation," emphasizes Giese.

About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading research consortium in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics. It has a mission and a public mandate to advocate for entrepreneurship, research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. The company envisions a future where the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
The Cyber Valley Community brings together partners from science, industry, and society, along with AI researchers and entrepreneurs. The Cyber Valley GmbH is funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg and acts as the central organizer, service provider, and host for the community. While the GmbH operates from Stuttgart and Tübingen, Cyber Valley has a larger scope: As a national and European driving force, it attracts the best people from all over the world to create the future with AI.

About the Center for Bionic Intelligence Tübingen Stuttgart
At the interdisciplinary research center BITS, approximately 50 scientists have been engaged in various projects since May 2023. BITS members bring together wide-ranging expertise from a variety of disciplines, including biomedicine, neuromechanics, materials science, soft and biorobotics, physics, electrical engineering, social science, ethics, neuroscience and computer science. The research work is intended to contribute to the technical implementation of bionic systems and help to establish these in the medical sector. This will significantly reduce the ever-increasing social burden of mental and neurological disorders, as well as individual suffering. To this end, BITS combines the complementary expertise of the Universities of Stuttgart and Tübingen and the Max Planck Institutes for Intelligent Systems and Biological Cybernetics. BITS is part of Cyber Valley, Europe's largest research consortium in robotics and artificial intelligence.
Expert Contact
- Prof. Dr. Syn Schmitt, University of Stuttgart, Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems
- Prof. Sabine Ludwigs, University of Stuttgart, Institute of Polymer Chemistry
- Prof. Martin Giese, University of Tübingen, Section for Computational Sensomotorics
About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest and leading research consortium in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics. Cyber Valley has a public mandate: As advocates for entrepreneurship, research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems are at the forefront. The company envisions a future where the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
Oktober 18, 2023
Cyber Valley Start-up Network welcomes hydrop systems

The Stuttgart-based start-up aims to increase awareness of water consumption, thereby addressing environmental issues, including water shortages and droughts.
With the use of their plug-and-play adapter, hydrop systems has made it easy to determine how much water is being consumed in a household. After the adapter connects to the water meter, the user-friendly central monitoring platform analyzes in detail the consumption of water within a specific period. Using the results, the start-up will optimize water utilization, enhancing a household’s efficiency and lowering costs.
Image: hydrop systems
With the help of artificial intelligence, hydrop systems develops software that pinpoints exactly where water is being used, delivering an even more detailed analysis of consumption than is possible without such software. With this knowledge, preventive measures can be taken before problems like leakages and bursts occur.
“At hydrop systems, we believe that we unlock the path to a greener and more resilient future through the fusion of sustainability and cutting-edge AI innovations. We are excited to be part of the Cyber Valley, where the synergy between research, industry, and start-ups in this domain is shaping a brighter future for all,” says Katrin Kreidel, CEO and Co-Founder of hydrop systems.
About Cyber Valley
Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest research consortium in artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics. Cyber Valley has a public mandate to advocate for entrepreneurship, research, development, application, and acceptance of technologies and methods in the field of intelligent systems. The company envisions a future where the full potential of intelligent systems is leveraged for the greater good of the world.
The Cyber Valley Community connects partners from science, industry, and society together, along with AI researchers and entrepreneurs. The Cyber Valley GmbH, funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg, acts as the central organizer, service provider, and host for this community. The GmbH is located in Stuttgart and Tübingen, but the Cyber Valley Community has a far wider reach: As a national and European driving force, we attract the best people from around the world to create the future with AI.
About the Cyber Valley Start-up Network
With the Cyber Valley Start-up Network, Cyber Valley is building and fostering a community of AI entrepreneurs. Members enjoy exclusive access to a wide-ranging network, connecting them with AI researchers, investors, corporations, and fellow startups. Members are required to have a connection to Cyber Valley, either by being located in Baden-Württemberg, or by being members or alumni of Cyber Valley partner institutions. The core of their business model must be centered around intelligent systems. The Start-up Network is growing continuously. More information about the current number of start-ups and the application process: cyber-valley.de/start-up-network.

About hydrop systems
hydrop systems wants to proactively prevent water shortages through offering smart metering for water consumption. We provide a user-friendly solution for determining water usage via precise monitoring. The device, which anyone can install easily in under two minutes, attaches seamlessly to the existing water meter and offers real-time monitoring. Data is analyzed on hydrop systems' backend using artificial intelligence, which can perform tasks like tracking consumption by application and promptly spotting leaks. hydrop systems also provides personalized water-saving tips and an information platform with, among other tools, general facts about water and a community function.

Oktober 10, 2023