Based on the planned Work Packages, the following activities have been performed:
WP1: Product Development
We made significant strides in developing the technical fundament of all three shop-floor tools, our Reference Digital Twin (Reference DT) concept, serving as a golden standard for good quality in running productions: Machine operators can use the Reference DT now as a blueprint for the future components highlighting any deviations of process parameters during the running production.
We tested our Reference DT concept in our three pilot projects:
• BMW - Visual Quality Inspection in Direct Energy Deposition process: The pilot focused on using the Reference DT to quickly locate and evaluate defects before further processing.
• Isar Aerospace - Inline Process Monitoring in Additive Manufacturing process: In this pilot the Reference DT was used to give live notifications in case of anomalies lying out of reference with the ability to counteract if necessary.
• MT Aerospace - Automated Machine Optimization in Shot Peening process: In this pilot, the Reference DT was used to automatically find the best process parameters for each layer.
In parallel to the technical development, we also focused on enhancing the user experience and interface design. Based on feedback from pilot customers and extensive market interviews, we developed mock-ups for our tools and implemented them in UX/UI. Our technical development took longer than initially expected, leading to an extension of our project timeline by three months. While this delay was unforeseen, it provided us with additional time to gather valuable market feedback and refine our products accordingly.
WP2: Market Validation
We conducted extensive market validation efforts to ensure our products meet the needs and expectations of the manufacturing industry.
Market Analysis
We conducted comprehensive competitor research to understand the market landscape and identify our unique value propositions. Also, a detailed market research was carried out to explore opportunities within the space manufacturing sector. We identified key trade fairs and events relevant to our industry to maximize our market exposure.
Market Interviews
We carried out in-depth interviews with companies in the aerospace, automotive, and semiconductor sectors to validate our product concepts. These interviews helped to refine our value propositions and to confirm their market need.
Marketing Efforts
We implemented several marketing strategies, ranging from product videos, over webinars to pitches, booths and visits at industry fairs and events, to showcase our products and collect valuable feedback. Moreover, we conducted numerous customer visits (e.g. Airbus Aerostructures, Airbus, KraussMaffei, KSB, MT Aerospace, MTU Aero Engines, Siemens and Ansys) to gather direct feedback and understand specific needs.
Business Case Calculations
Moreover, we developed and verified business cases for each of our tools with pilot project partners and other market players, taking into account cost savings, benefits, and return on investment (ROI) for each tool.
Overall, our market validation efforts over the past year have provided us with a deeper understanding of the market needs and positioned us well for successful commercialization.
WP3: Updating Go-To-Market Strategy & Business Plan Update
We diligently worked on updating our go-to-market strategy and business plan based on the comprehensive feedback and insights gathered from our market validation efforts. This process was closely guided by our mentor, Andreas Parmeggiani.
Development of Business Model Canvas
We developed a detailed Business Model Canvas providing a structured framework for evaluating and refining our value proposition, customer segments, channels, and revenue streams.
Go-To-Market Strategy Development
Drawing insights from the Business Model Canvas and from sales pitches, we crafted a robust go-to-market strategy, targeting high-value customers.
New Customer Leads
We identified and reached out to new customer leads, resulting in engagements with the following prospects:
• Visual Quality Inspection: MT Aerospace, Andritz, Norsk Titanium, KraussMaffei, Siemens Energy, Liebherr Nenzing, Heggemann, Listemann, Guaranteed, Gefertec, SLM Solutions, Daimler.
• Inline Process Monitoring: KSB Pumpen, Siemens Energy, APWorks, MT Aerospace, MAN Energy, Zeiss, SLM Solutions.
• Automated Machine Optimization: MT Aerospace, Caracol, Airbus Aerostructures, Fraunhofer IGCV, Ansys, Hexagon.
The insights and strategies developed over the past year have laid a strong foundation for our market entry and growth.
