Digital twin research initiative funded by Niehoff Foundation

For those not in the know, a digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical object or process, such as a machine or production line, used to simulate the behavior of the object or process under different conditions. Using digital twins allows engineers and other experts to test and optimize designs, predict and prevent failures, and introduce other improvements. Digital twins are in use across a wide range of sectors and industries, including manufacturing, as they can provide several benefits, such as greater efficiency, lower costs, and improved performance.

The Walter and Elfriede Niehoff Foundation, established in honor of the founder of Maschinenfabrik Niehoff and his wife, is backing the research initiative "Application of digital twins in medium-sized mechanical engineering firms".

The project of the East Bavarian Technical University of Applied Sciences (OTH) Regensburg, funded with half a million euros, aims to provide small and medium-sized mechanical engineering companies with a significant edge in knowledge, leading to an advantage in the market, through the use of digital techniques in product development.
The final goals are streamlining production procedures, promoting resource efficiency, cutting expenses, and quickening the advancement of new technologies.

The Walter and Elfriede Niehoff Foundation also supports young professionals in technical and economic courses and promotes social and cultural projects at the Niehoff headquarters in Schwabach (Germany).

The Niehoff Group, an international leader in machinery production for the wire and cable industry, with around 1000 employees worldwide, has collaborated with the Mechanical Engineering Faculty of the OTH Regensburg for around 1.5 years and is now part of the new digital twin working group alongside other reputable plant and machinery manufacturers.