EPFL engineers are pioneering an energy-saving technology that uses fiber optics to boost the performance of supercomputers. Christophe Moser and Demetri Psaltis. ©Alain Herzog
Motivation
Switzerland is a major exporter of high value-added products and services, with a shortage of raw materials and high labour costs. Nevertheless, it has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to maintain a strong and prosperous secondary sector. However, like other industrialised countries, it faces many challenges due to increasing competition from emerging countries. In addition, the various technological advances are curbing the competitive advantages conferred by the expertise and know-how of its processing industry. In order to boost its manufacturing activities, Switzerland must invest significantly in science and R&D. The M2C responds to the needs of Swiss industry in the context of the ETH Board’s strategic initiative on advanced manufacturing for 2021-2024 and through its positioning within the Neuchâtel innovation site.
Mission
The M2C aims to create knowledge and develop skills to address scientific and technological challenges relevant to the future of manufacturing. The centre draws on the pool of talent active in the laboratories of EPFL and CSEM. It also draws on the expertise of its industrial members to initiate and support research programmes around advanced manufacturing. It focuses on high-precision 3D microfabrication, a fast-growing and critical field in which Switzerland must continue to excel.
The centre has a state-of-the-art infrastructure dedicated to research on materials, processes and manufacturing tools. It enables the discovery of new technologies in the value chains of a wide range of high value-added products and applications. By providing a collaborative space for high-level research, the centre facilitates technology transfer. Its members thus remain at the forefront of innovation and strengthen their competitiveness.