In our increasingly complex world, it is digitalization that provides us with vital support—from the countless little helpers in our daily lives to highly complex computing infrastructures. When we take a closer look at digitalization, we must distinguish between software and hardware. Innovative hardware plays a central role, as it is what makes many applications—such as artificial intelligence and machine learning—possible in the first place. Through disruptive approaches in computer hardware, we strengthen our international position as a hub for innovation and thereby unlock market potential at the national, European, and global levels. After all, if data and software were considered oil, innovative computer architectures would be the derricks.
Key technologies such as nanotechnology, nano- and microsystems engineering, innovative materials, and photonics are of central importance in innovative computer architectures. These technologies provide important impetus along the entire value chain—from new 2D materials and photonic components, through corresponding production processes such as electron beam lithography, to complete systems such as neuromorphic chips. In particular, key technologies from North Rhine-Westphalia make a fundamental contribution at various levels in the field of nano- and microsystems engineering to increasing resource efficiency, energy savings, the transition away from fossil fuels, and resilience. Hardware and software thus jointly serve as the driving forces behind the advancements we see, for example, in sectors such as healthcare, education, energy, transportation, and logistics, as well as in enhancing the resilience of critical sectors of our economy and infrastructure.
North Rhine-Westphalia is home to remarkable economic and scientific activities in the fields of neuromorphic computing, high-performance computing, modular supercomputing, edge computing, and quantum computing. These innovative technologies and hardware innovations—alongside the training of highly qualified specialists—emerge from a well-functioning and well-connected ecosystem comprising science, business, and politics.
In an interview with NMWP.NRW, Ms. Ina Brandes, Minister of Culture and Science for the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, attested to the high innovation potential of our economic and scientific landscape. The high concentration of excellent research, in particular, provides important international impetus through scientific discoveries and economically successful spin-offs.
As you can see, key technologies such as nano- and microsystems engineering, innovative materials, and photonics are important enablers for the “Future of Computing.” These cross-cutting technologies are our daily companions and supporters. They are hardly noticed by the general public, yet they make indispensable contributions to improving our lives and strengthening the economy in a sustainable way. With this magazine, we would like to offer you insights into some of the activities and innovative initiatives coming out of North Rhine-Westphalia.