Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems IVI

Around 70 representatives from companies, research institutions, and authorities met at the Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI). The UAM Initiative Ingolstadt aims to bring together different stakeholders to generate a new and forward-looking form of airbound mobility in the lower airspace.

The network meeting offered fascinating insights into the latest research topics in Urban Air Mobility and featured practical outdoor demonstrations. The Fraunhofer flagship project ALBACOPTER^®, including six sub-projects, was the highlight of the event. Following an exciting introductory lecture by Prof. Matthias Klingner, project manager and director of Fraunhofer IVI, interested participants had the opportunity to visit the developed demonstrators at the technology café in the afternoon – including the ALBACOPTER^® 0.5 with a wingspan of 7 meters. The project team was particularly pleased with the opportunity to present the project results to such a wide circle of professionals and to receive new impulses for further project work.

 “United by Science“ – that was the theme for this year’s Dresden Science Night. Numerous educational and research institutions opened their doors, offering interactive experiences to bring research closer to interested visitors.

 Fraunhofer IVI showcased various current research projects, allowing over 600 guests to get a look behind the scenes of the institute – partly in virtual space, but also up close on the in-house test track. Visitors of all ages could get a glimpse into the future of urban air mobility and marvel at the ALBACOPTER^® through VR headsets. The FAPS and PAPS-XR project booth also used virtual reality to have the visitors safely experience dangerous traffic situations from various perspectives.

Real-world presentations, including the possibility to ride along in a 5G-remote-controlled car or an automated truck, equally sparked the crowd’s excitement. While adult visitors could gain fascinating insights from short lectures on topics such as fuel cells and AI in the construction industry, the youngest researchers had plenty to discover at the crafting station and play interactive games.

We sincerely thank all visitors for their great interest in our institute and the many engaging conversations. We look forward to the next Science Night already!