«Corporate networks have an accelerating effect»

Mr Kyburz, the kick-off of the company network "Ground-based Autonomous Systems" recently took place. What is the idea behind this?

The idea behind the company network is cross-company and cross-sector learning in a relatively new technology area of autonomous systems. We see that universities and companies are working intensively on the topic of autonomous systems and recognise synergies in various places that we would like to exploit through networking.

Why a company network and how do you bind the companies to this network?

A company network offers participating companies a simple opportunity to exchange ideas on current topics on an informal level and without obligation. Involving companies in the network is very easy: companies that are interested and support the idea and values of the company network are welcome to participate and contribute.

Which companies are currently involved and why is Kyburz also committed to this network?

We have united representatives from globally active corporations to just founded start-ups and from product manufacturers to component manufacturers in our company network. Currently, there are about 12 companies that have participated in the founding of the company network. We know of further companies that are interested and over time the company network will continue to grow. Kyburz is involved in this network because we have a great interest in the topic of autonomous systems and are convinced that a company network can have an accelerating effect for specific questions.

Is it still possible to join as a company?

Yes, for sure, as mentioned we are an open and transparent company network and are very happy to accept other companies that share our idea and values into our network at any time.

What will be the next steps in this corporate network?

The central element of the company network are the meetings, which take place three to four times a year at a participating company. The first meeting took place at our premises in Freienstein-Teufen; the next meeting will be held at the premises of another participant. The meetings have a thematic focus on which the participants exchange ideas, learn from each other and work together on solutions.

In addition to the quarterly meetings, smaller working groups can be formed on specific topics to work on challenges and solutions in a very focused way. The working groups are largely self-organised, similar to the whole company network, and the results of the working groups are shared with all participants of the network. This creates a system in which companies get involved in terms of content and benefit from the existing know-how of the network - a typical win-win situation.

The big topic of the network is "Ground-based Autonomous Systems": What are the major challenges that still need to be overcome in this area?

There are several here. Among other things, there are the investments: New technologies mean high investments in development, resources and know-how, especially in sensor technology.

Then there is the lack of industry standards and interfaces. Companies generally work on their own technologies and there is a lack of coordination of interfaces to the infrastructure (traffic control system, building technology, etc...).

However, legislation and approval procedures for pilot trials also need to be adapted, standardised and simplified, or made more efficient for all parties involved.

Furthermore, one has to look at the responsibility in case of damage, because autonomous systems need new insurance models. And last but not least, social acceptance is needed, just as all new forms of mobility require the consent of the population

Is there a website or how do you find out about the network?

A website for the company network is being planned by the Canton of Zurich's location promotion agency, which is also a co-initiator of the company network.

The network was set up on the initiative of the Canton of Zurich's location promotion department. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Markus Müller (markus.mueller@vd.zh.ch), Hightech Project Manager, directly.

Author: Eugen Albisser
Technik und Wissen: Das Fachmagazin für die Industrie
Image source: Kyburz Switzerland AG