UTBM trains engineers who are quickly ready for the workforce and particularly adaptable to technological advancements and societal changes. Its programs are grounded in research and commercialization.
Abstract
Introduced in 2013 by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Colorado (U.S.), 4D printing combines additive manufacturing and active materials to build physical objects capable of changing their shape and/or properties in response to an energy stimulus. By adding the time parameter to 3D space, the relationship between application requirements and the technological means to meet them becomes more complicated, even complex. In this project, the national consortium will address various research areas, including digital technology (knowledge bases and machine learning related to materials and structures), materials and processes, and forward-looking initiatives (for example, linking 4D printing and biomimicry as a common thread and/or focusing on smart materials). Meeting the needs identified in this “technological leap” should [finally] enable the field of 4D printing to transition from an academic role to industrial applications.
Objectives
The main objectives of the project are (i) the construction of a comprehensive database with a neuro-symbolic artificial intelligence architecture (a multiscale or multidomain ontology covering smart materials and 4D-printed structures, coupled with machine learning models), (ii) the synthesis and formulation of the next generation of printable smart materials, with a particular focus on hydrogels, LCE (liquid crystal elastomers), SMPs (shape-memory polymers), and SMAs (shape-memory alloys), and (iii) the design and hybrid fabrication/assembly of selected smart materials and multi-material structures, with distributions of active and passive materials, through stimulation optimization to achieve a desired shape transformation.
VOXWRITE aims to develop an innovative microfluidic-based additive manufacturing (AM) technique capable of depositing polymerizable microdroplets that encapsulate multiple materials with variable spatial resolutions. This technological advancement offers flexibility and accuracy in constructing complex structures and objects with enhanced functionalities while maintaining a production rate comparable to that of existing AM techniques. The scientific challenge lies in depositing heterogeneous materials at different locations on the object to enhance its performance and/or introduce new capabilities. The most advanced industrial sectors, such as biomedical, automotive, and aerospace, are moving toward developing transformable or adaptive devices that can change shape to better suit their intended use. In the field of AM, these innovative solutions can be addressed using active or smart materials and energy stimuli under the umbrella of 4D printing. The proposed technique will then be developed within the context of multi-material 4D printing, with an illustrative use case being a drug delivery system with time-controlled, shape-changing capabilities for the biomedical industry.
Objectives
The research objectives focus on (1) the creation and shaping of calibrated microdroplets containing active, passive, and/or filled polymerizable resins, and the definition of the associated encapsulation process(es); (2) the development of a microdroplet deposition strategy and localized energy source(s) to ensure their adhesion to the object being printed; and (3) the design, assembly, and automation of an integrated microfluidic 3D printing system.
Abstract
The ALISON++ project aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of intensive care by implementing an automated, personalized system. This system will be designed to adjust sedation and analgesia based on each patient’s specific needs in real time, thereby reducing the need for manual intervention by medical staff and increasing the precision of treatment.
Objectives
The ALISON++ project, an innovative initiative in the field of critical care, aims to revolutionize sedation and analgesia practices through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The primary goal of this ambitious project is to develop an advanced system that will enable more personalized and precise management of sedation, thereby meeting the individual needs of each patient in critical care.
The xHUB project aims to automate the movement of trailers using autonomous and eco-friendly tractor robots within warehouses and logistics hubs (EPL). It takes the operational environment into precise account by combining autonomous driving with various technological components that ensure feasibility, safety, and tangible benefits when deploying the tractor robots. Key elements include automated battery charging and coupling, an augmented and connected perception system to cover blind spots, and a high-performance operations management and monitoring system.
Objectives
Expected Results
Reducing air pollution and climate change is a crucial individual and collective challenge for safeguarding our future and that of our children. The LIFE V-aiR project aims to raise awareness and engage policymakers and citizens on this issue through immersive games using virtual reality: a “serious game” for policymakers and an “escape game” for citizens. Coordinated by Atmo Grand Est, the project brings together nine partners. It began in August 2022 and will run for four years.
As part of the LIFE V-aiR project, UTBM, as an affiliate of the University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté (UBFC), is involved at several levels:
Contact
Project Contact:franck.gechter@utbm.fr
Overview
The LIFE V-aiR project was launched on September 26, 2022, and will run for 4 years. The goal is to create and deploy two virtual reality games to train local decision-makers and raise public awareness about critical issues related to air quality, climate, and energy:
The total project budget is 1.3 million euros, 60% of which is funded by the European Union’s LIFE program, with co-funding from the Grand-Est Region, the City of La Rochelle, and the nine beneficiary partners.
Key Project Activities
The LIFE V-aiR project is organized around eight major actions:
Results
The data presented reflect the expected results. The actual results of the project will be available at the end of the project, in late 2026.
Partners
Beneficiary Partners
The project is led byAtmo Grand Estand involves 8 other beneficiary partners:
Each beneficiary partner will test the games in its region. The project thus includes eight European regions: the city of Málaga in Spain, the city of Brașov in Romania, and six French regions (Grand-Est, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Hauts-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Normandy, and Martinique).
Co-funding Partners
The LIFE V-aiR project is 60% funded by the European Union’s LIFE program, with co-funding from the Grand-Est Region, the City of La Rochelle, and the nine beneficiary partners.
Associate Partners
The project also includes three associate partners that provide technical support: the ATMO France Federation, the French Alliance of Local Authorities for Air Quality, and the Italian Association for Sustainable Development (UCSA).
Low-temperature deposition of a diamond layer to improve the friction of micromechanical parts.
INTERREG V A Program (2014–2020)
France–Switzerland
Project period: January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022
Objectives
Actions
Expected Results
Partners
Financial Support
This project is being carried out as part of the INTERREG V A France-Switzerland European Territorial Cooperation Program.
It has thus received financial support from the EU through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) in the amount of €309,340, as well as support from the Swiss Confederation in the amount of CHF 149,015 and CHF 149,015 from Swiss cantonal funds, for a total eligible cost of €261,912 (CHF 298,030).
Functional coatings using HIPIMS technology for precision optical components.
Interreg VI Program
France–Switzerland 2021–2027
Overview
The OPTI-REVE project is funded by the INTERREG VI France-Switzerland program, the Canton of Neuchâtel, and the Canton of Geneva.
HIPIMS technology (High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering, a type of PVD) can significantly improve coating quality compared to traditional PVD (particularly conventional sputtering).
The improvements offered by HIPIMS include higher coating density, which results in better wear and corrosion resistance, as well as improved optical quality (brightness). In addition, HIPIMS coatings exhibit better adhesion to polymer surfaces (PMMA, PC).
In Switzerland
In France
Financial Support
Innovation platform supporting transitions in the Jura Arc.
Whether you’re a local government, a business, a student, or a committed citizen, find out how your projects can benefit from ArcINNOLAB’s expertise and support.
Interreg VI France-Switzerland 2021–2027
Project duration: September 1, 2024, through September 30, 2027
Contact
ArcINNOLAB Project Manager: arcinnolab@utbm.fr
Objectives
The ArcINNOLAB project aims to create a cross-border platform dedicated to supporting project leaders in the region’s areas of excellence:
By combining the expertise and networks of five organizations—UTBM Crunch Lab Innovation and KM0 in France; Basel Area Business & Innovation, the City of Delémont, and HE-Arc in Switzerland—our collaborative platform aims to stimulate regional ecosystems and address the challenges associated with transitions, in a context where innovation requires international networking and an interdisciplinary approach.
Location
Two physical locations
Partners
Financial Support
This project is supported by the Interreg France-Switzerland 2021-2027 European Territorial Cooperation Program. As such, it receives €343,065.16 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), €376,411.54 from federal funds, and €376,411.54 from Swiss cantonal funds (Canton of Jura). The total cost of the project is €1,865,468.83.
