Revolution in Bonn: New Visual Computing Incubator takes off!

Revolution in Bonn: New Visual Computing Incubator takes off!

The University of Bonn will set up a new Visual Computing Incubator (VCI) that will play a central role in the development of innovative technologies. The VCI, whose scientific direction is Prof. Dr. Matthias Hullin and Prof. Dr. Reinhard Klein is designed as a research facility that uses state-of-the-art computer graphic methods to develop digital twins and other innovative ideas. These virtual images could, for example, be used to better detect and treat diseases such as Parkinson's uni-bonn.de reported.

The digital twin is a trend that has the potential to fundamentally change the economy. This technology enables companies to map real machines, processes or cities in real time in order to develop products and optimize processes. Loud ideas-magazin.de The digital twin market is estimated to grow to $138 billion by 2030 and is already being used successfully in areas such as healthcare and smart cities. Procter & Gamble plans to use this technology to optimize its production processes.

Innovative applications and research

Numerous projects are being planned as part of the VCI, ranging from behavioral studies in the digital space to new therapeutic approaches in psychiatry. Astronomical and geographical simulations will also be the subject of research. Other planned offerings include the recording of contemporary witness reports, live concerts and the development of interactive digital art. To realize these diverse projects, the VCI will be provided with state-of-the-art equipment such as high-resolution LED walls, motion capture devices and virtual reality technology as well as a well-equipped data center, as stated in the report by uni-bonn.de described.

The support of the VCI from the NRW Ministry of Economic Affairs amounting to around 3 million euros underlines the important role that this incubator can play in the context of digital transformation. The interim solution in the Institute of Computer Science already enables the use of VCI technology for start-up projects and research projects. A partnership with the transfer center enaCom is also planned to support start-ups in the development of virtual reality applications and data-intensive mobile applications.

The role of the metaverse

The developments surrounding digital twins are closely linked to the pioneering concepts of the metaverse. Experts like Dr. Leif Oppermann from Fraunhofer FIT emphasize that a decentralized Internet without control by states or companies will be crucial for the future of the metaverse. Decentralization brings with it numerous benefits, but also risks, such as the dangers of handling user data and intellectual property. Nevertheless, companies see great potential in the metaverse, particularly in areas such as commerce, tourism and education. One Fraunhofer study highlights that 95% of executives expect the metaverse to have a positive impact on their industry in the coming years.

In industry, the metaverse could fundamentally change the way companies work. Products are simulated and tested virtually, resulting in faster optimizations. A McKinsey study predicts that the metaverse could be worth up to $5 billion by 2030. Leading expertise and collaborative action are therefore essential to develop secure solutions in the metaverse and fully realize the benefits of digital twin technology.