Magazine M&N-Micronarc_4eEd - ARI-SO

The Magazine of the micro-nanotech Cluster of Western Switzerland IV - 2021

SENSORS & MEASURING DEVICES

AERONAUTICS & SPACE

MACHINES, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT & AUTOMATION

COBOTICS

AUTOMOBILE

ELECTRONICS, MICRO-ELECTRONICS

MEDICAL

ENERGY

WATCHMAKING

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

MATERIALS

R & D + SERVICES

SUB-CONTRACTING

Materials

The future of microtechTime

Precision

InnovationReliability

Sensors

MEM

s

Watchmaking

Micro-electronics

Compliant mechanism development with ESA

The strength ofinnovative carbon technology

Multi-levels 18 μm wedge bonding

Witness: fully autonomousthrough PV recharging

High-end and exclusive toolsand accessories for dentistry

Energy

Industry 4.0Machine Learning

Circular Econo

my

ChangeEdge AI

AR/VR

Tele

med

ecin

e

Des

ktop

fac

tory

Wearables

Drones

Mobility

Smartcities

Photonics

Holograms

3IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine

Mag

IMPRESSUM

Editor:MicronarcSecretary General: Danick Bionda. Secretary Executive: Swiss Foundation for Research in Microtechnology(FSRM), Ruelle DuPeyrou 4, CH-2001 Neuchâtel – Switzerland; Tel. +41 32 720 09 00; www.micronarc.ch

Coordination: Céline Bernasconi - CAorganiz, La Vue-des-AlpesDesign and editing: Adequa Communication SA - Laurent Donner, Jean-Luc Renck, La Chaux-de-Fonds.

Printing: imprimerie des Montagnes SA, La Chaux-de-Fonds

Pictures and credits:Pictures transmitted by the companies themselves: companies’ copyright,GenèveTourisme/Gauvin Lapetoule, CSEM/EPFL – Alain Herzog, SwitzerlandTourism/swiss-image.ch/Martin Maegli/Robert Boesch, Christof Sondereg-ger, Glacier3000, www.pierrecuony.ch, Sven Almeida, Jonathan Fuchs.

© Micronarc 2021No part of this magazine or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied,modified or adapted, without prior written consent.

Content

05071315233339516387107108

Editorial

SENSORS, MEASURING DEVICES & ENERGY

SPOTLIGHT ON... CSEM

R&D + SERVICES

MACHINES, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT & AUTOMATION

ELECTRONICS, MICRO-ELECTRONICS

MEDICAL

MATERIALS

DIGITAL SECTION

WATCHMAKING & SUB-CONTRACTING

Micronarc - A mission at the heart of micro and nanotechnologies

The Micronarc team

B reitling has an ace up its sleevewhen it comes to diving: the Superocean, created in 1957 for

professional divers. The model was not,however, to be confined to devotees ofthe deep. Yachting and water sportsfans quickly made it a sports watch thatwas prized for both its style and per-formance. So what could be more nat-ural than to give this diver’s timepiecea new lease of life in the form of theSuperocean Heritage that revives the1950s design? And it is this latestmodel that has been chosen to markthe partnership between Breitling andthe Ocean Conservancy, whose mis-sions to protect marine ecosystems andclean up the world’s beaches it sharesand supports. The watch is equippedwith an ECONYL® strap, made from re-cycled nylon fishing nets. This innova-tive material also highlights theconnection between Breitling and Out-erknown, a sustainable clothing brandco-founded by ‘Breitling Surfer Squad’member Kelly Slater.

Superocean Heritage II Chronograph 44Ocean Conservancy Limited Edition in steelwith silver dial and blue-striped satin NATOECONYL® strap.

Environmental commitment

>> AWARENESS & TRIBUTE

Source: Watches The Guide

ARI-SOWestern Switzerland Innovation Network Association

CANTONAL CONTACT POINTS

COACHING PROGRAMS

SECTOR-SPECIFICPROMOTION PLATFORMS

D ear reader,

Welcome to the fourth edition ofyour Micro&Nano Mag, published byMicronarc, the micro-nanotech clusterof Western Switzerland. This is a specialenhanced edition with more than 100pages in order to include a brand-newDigital Section.

Our goal is to valorize and promote themost innovative products and technolo-gies from our region. We invite you todiscover the new developments of morethan 35 inspiring companies and organ-izations:- miniature atomic vapor-cell Quantumdevices, for sensing and metrology,

5

Mag

- new successful and innovative busi-ness models like watchmaking crowd-funding campaigns,

- electric-hydrogen racing prototypes,in a domain with a promising future.

The innovations that will shape this fu-ture, will benefit from past and presentones - «nani gigantum humeris insi-dentes», i.e. «dwarfs standing on theshoulders of giants». While Switzerlandhas mastered time for the past 3.5 cen-turies, dematerialization’s pace has quiteaccelerated in the last decades. Us orour children will live the «technologicalsingularity». Then the new paradigmwill be transhumanism. Undeniably,micro&nanotechnologies, the core do-main of Micronarc, will play a key rolein these transformations to come.

We wish you a happy reading!

- new industrial humanoid robots, aswell as sophisticated micro-assemblymachines and smart factories,

- medical innovations and wearable de-vices for early detection of cancer with3D array of ultrasound probes,

- top level education, research and in-novation centers, incubators and facil-itators from the 7 cantons of WesternSwitzerland,

- high precision processes and new ma-terials with superior levels of perform-ance, up to concrete 3D printing!

- Edge AI, Industry 4.0, IoT, Tele-medecine, smart water solutions,

- traditional and hybrid time master-pieces, with connected functionalitiesand solar energy system,

Editorial>> SUPPORT FOR SMES & START-UPS IN WESTERN SWITZERLAND

www.ari-so.ch

7 CANTONS SWISS CONFEDERATION

Danick Bionda, Secretary Generalof Micronarc

Transhumanism?

… … …

Live. Live fast. Live forever. Live free.

Old Tek. Modern Tek. Future Tek. No Tek?

IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine>> SENSORS, MEASURING DEVICES & ENERGY

Living creatures need to perceive what is pertinent, useful, vitalto them. Human societies too. Today, small sensors and smartsensing systems assess everywhere our environment, energies,processes, health... with the finest details. This new stage ofglobal evolution has Western Switzerland as a preeminent actor.

La Ramée, Lake of Neuchâtel

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Re-think product development based on AM –compliant mechanism development with the ESA

© Sven Alm

eida

, Neu

châtel

Flexible fluxgate sensor comprising padprinted solenoid coils around a soft magneticcore with the ability to detect the Earth’smagnetic field

Switzerland: innovation & reliability

High-power electric-hydrogen propulsion sys-tems for the truck industry

9

In collaboration with all Swiss UAS, the Master ofScience HES-SO in Engineering is upgraded to adaptto evolving industry needs, to strengthen links witheach profession and to improve coherence withbachelor programs. Good news: a Microengineeringprofile will open in 2021!

This article aims to inform profes-sionals about the reshaped Masterof Science in Engineering (MSE)

from the Swiss Universities of AppliedSciences (UAS) with special focus on itsdeployment at HES-SO in WesternSwitzerland (Haute école spécialisée deSuisse occidentale) and on the creationof a Microengineering profile at this level.

In critical times when society and econ-omy are shaken, changes are vital to faceand overcome the accompanying chal-lenges. Technology, competencies andeducation are key factors to allow com-panies to accommodate, evolve andeven contribute to these changes. Mas-ter programs such as the MSE at HES-SOplay an essential role in such times: en-gineers are gaining deeper knowledge,up-to-date skills and experience with ex-perts or highly qualified professionals.This is achieved in close collaboration be-tween the HES-SO MSE and the indus-try. The MSE consists of 90 ECTS creditstaking 3 (full time schedule) or 5 semes-ters (part-time schedule). The HES-SOMSE program is taught in Lausanne atthe HES-SO Master center and in 5 en-gineering schools of HES-SO (HE-ARC,HEIA-FR, HEI-VS, HEIG-VD, HEPIA).Participating students are:

• Bachelor graduate students from UASprograms in engineering;

• engineers active in the industry willingto complete their education after sev-eral years of experience;

• exchange or regular international stu-dents with professional experience,wishing to gain a specialization includ-ing a strong focus on applied research;

• MSE students from other Swiss UAS.

This new Microengineering profile ispart of a complete redesign of our HES-SO MSE. This redesign will be offered in2021. Its most visible change is the in-creased number of profiles from 4 to 7:

• Civil Engineering• Computer Science• Data Science• Electrical Engineering• Energy and Environment• Mechanical Engineering• Microengineering

Other changes include not only newnames common for all Switzerland, butalso revisited, updated and evolvingprograms. HES-SO will be the only UASoffering Microengineering.

Microengineering is this unique capabil-ity to master miniaturization in engi-neering, with all possible aspects relatedto it. Its main objective is to increase inproducts the functionalities number in afinite volume. Engineers with this profiletherefore require a wide range ofknowledge and skills. As UAS Bachelorprograms are intended to be profes-sional, our students are therefore quicklyoriented towards a professional activity.The field of microengineering todayfaces an increasing number of chal-lenges to improve its competitivenessand so requires a multidisciplinary ex-pansion that cannot be all covered in a3-year professionalizing Bachelor's de-gree. These challenges include digitaltransition, dematerialization, smartservices, sensor networks and energyharvesting plus sustainable micro-engineering production and products.These themes are common to the dif-

>> SENSORS, MEASURING DEVICES

Mag

ferent sectors of activities such aswatchmaking, robotics, instrumenta-tion or medical technologies, withoutforgetting the manufacturing meansdedicated to this industry.

The Microengineering profile of theMSE therefore aims to:

• strengthen theoretical bases and mul-tidisciplinary skills required to meetsuch challenges, as well as in a generalway transverse competencies of mi-croengineering;

• improve soft skills such as creativity,communication in a multicultural en-vironment, problem solving and teammanagement.

With the new MSE profiles at HES-SO,including in particular Microengineering,we aim to better prepare engineers topractice their profession in a world withrapidly evolving societal and economicalchallenges.

www.hes-so.ch/mse

[1] Spyridon Schoinas et al., Sensors 2020, 20, 2275; doi: 10.3390/s20082275

«Education andtechnology development area fight against ignorance andmisery. Let’sfight!»

Philippe Passeraub, UAS Professor and MSEHead at HES-SO

HES-SO opens a Microengineering profile at the masterlevel

1. An example of a MSE Master thesis in col-laboration with two Swiss industrial part-ners active in pad printing and inmagnetic field measurements: a flexiblefluxgate sensor comprising pad printedsolenoid coils around a soft magneticcore with the ability to detect the Earth’smagnetic field [1].

2. HES-SO MSE program is taught in variouslocations in Western Switzerland. Lecturesfrom other MSE-CH locations are also ac-cessible. With COVID-19 distance teachingmodes have been introduced.

3. Since 2009 HES-SO is training young engi-neers in its Master of Science in Engineer-ing (MSE) program.

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© HES-SO Guillaum

e Pe

rret

«The electric-hydrogen solu-tion brings a rational and real-istic approach tothe future of sus-

tainability for the industrialsector of heavy duty transportas well as for public and private communities and industries.»Christophe Ricard, GreenGT’s President

11

GreenGT, the championof electric-hydrogensolutions

In a few months GreenGT will celebrate its 13th an-niversary with a move to a new factory in Collombey-Muraz in the swiss canton of Valais. The new prem-ises will provide much more space as well as beingmore modern and better adapted to its developmentin a domain with a very promising future. G reenGT is the Swiss champion of

electric-hydrogen solutions. Itwas founded in 2008 and today

it is presided over by Christophe Ricard,its reference shareholder, and the youngcompany is one of the European trail-blazers in energy transition at the serviceof mobility and the regions. «My drivingpassion is the future,» explains its vision-ary president who has enjoyed a verysuccessful career in the bio-tech industry.«A tangible future consists of controlledsolutions. The technology of the electric-hydrogen generator, the fuel cell, is acredible and efficient answer. GreenGTwas created, exists and has grown withthe support of this reality.»GreenGT has built up its excellence firstof all by working on high-powered elec-tric-hydrogen mobility. By developing itsfirst power units aimed at the heavytransport industry the team of engineersgathered round Jean-François Weberhas built up critical experience. He is oneof the founders and is now the generalmanager of GreenGT SA and also theman in charge of research and develop-ment.«At the start we had to prove the meritof our solutions,» recalls Weber whomany experts today consider as one ofthe international benchmarks in thisfield. «The conquest of space was car-ried out thanks to the electric-hydrogengenerator. What was reliable, safe andefficient in such a hostile environmentand in such ultra-demanding conditionsshould be also capable of powering alorry on the road. But we had todemonstrate this to be true!»

Racing prototypes and lorries, thesame technological challenge So what better way to achieve this than

the construction of high-performanceprototypes! A series of vehicleslaunched with the H2 in 2012 was sopromising that they persuaded the Au-tomobile Club de l’Ouest, the organiserof the 24 Hours of Le Mans, to team upwith GreenGT to prepare for the intro-duction of a category for electric-hydro-gen prototypes at the 2024 edition ofthe famous race. This was how the Mis-sionH24 programme was born. Away from the circuits GreenGT appliesits experience and expertise to the serv-ice of land-based, maritime and air in-dustrial projects in several countries inEurope. In Switzerland, for example, inthe context of the GoH! programme runin collaboration with Migros (supermar-kets), SIG (Geneva Industrial Services)and Larag (dealer of commercial vehi-cles), Weber and his team have devel-oped a 44-ton truck capable of covering1000 km per day with a refuelling stopof a few minutes every 500 km. Cur-rently road tested for its homologation.In time, GreenGT will be able to pro-duce short runs of electric-hydrogenpower units for this programme and theothers it’s working on in its new factoryin Collombey-Muraz.

Another area of expertise: hydro-gen in the regionsIn a related domain and because of itsadvance in the field of electric-hydrogensolutions, GreenGT came up againstproblems that nobody had previouslyfaced to solve, in particular those con-cerning the infrastructures and the re-gions. «Where and how to producehydrogen locally, how to transport it,make it available, supply fleets or build-ings? We had to come up with our ownanswers to these new issues. So we’ve

1. GreenGT’s bases are established in France(GreenGT Technologies, located in Signesnear the Paul Ricard racing track), inSwitzerland at the Ecole PolytechniqueFédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and in abrand new building in Collombey-Muraz.

2. MissionH24’s LMPH2G electric-hydrogenracing prototype. GreenGT’s successfuljoint-venture with the Automobile Club del’Ouest. Target: to prepare the introduc-tion of an electric-hydrogen powered racing prototype series at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2024.

3. High-power electric-hydrogen propulsionsystems for the truck industry is one ofthe core competences of GreenGT. For itsclients, GreenGT brings the highest levelR&D, prototype creation and small seriesproduction to the whole powertrain.

>> ENERGY

Mag

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acquired additional expertise that en-ables us to intervene as advisor or oper-ator, including training, in public andprivate communities and industries» ex-plains Christophe Ricard. «Faced withthe task that the energy transition rep-resents, thanks to hydrogen we have alocal, global and renewable answer. Un-doubtedly, there are other technologicaloptions to take up this challenge, butnone has these assets - which are alsothose of GreenGT!»

www.greengt.comPictures: © GreenGT

3.

13>> SPOTLIGHT ON... CSEM

Mag

Smart, miniature, precise, low-power: important today, key for tomorrow

Once upon a time… many of us have read the taleof Sleeping Beauty. After pricking her finger on aspindle, the King’s daughter falls into a deep sleepthat lasts 100 years. In this time, the Princess staysthe same, but the outside world continues tochange... ...s lowly, almost impercepti-

bly. Bringing this story for-ward into the 21st Century,

what would happen if Sleeping Beautyfell asleep in the year 2000 to wake in2020? Two words that would have en-tered the common lexicon but be unfa-miliar to her are Big Data andCOVID-19. So, how does this modernreworking of the fairytale relate toCSEM? In the real world, this researchand innovation hub at the heart ofSwitzerland’s microtechnology regionhas plenty of answers.

Let’s start with COVID-19, a strain ofthe Coronavirus that would impactSleeping Beauty in ways she couldn’timagine. She wouldn’t wake to a kissfrom a Prince but would be followinghygiene measures like wearing a mask,sanitizing her hands, and socially dis-tancing. These measures don’t rely onany specialized technologies but detect-ing the virus and its antibodies do.Sleeping Beauty needs microtechnolo-gies: sensors capable of detecting anti-bodies in the blood or saliva; wearablesthat can monitor multiple parameters onthe human body; powerful miniaturizedprocessors and algorithms to indicate ifthe virus is present; automated precisioninstruments to support the reliablescreening of new molecules; and to pro-tect those around her, a Bluetooth LowEnergy protocol on her smartphone forproximity detection and contact tracing.

Thankfully, for our modern-day SleepingBeauty, all these technologies are«Made in Switzerland». With a highdensity of academic institutions and re-

search institutes alongside strong indus-trial connections, it’s not surprising thatSwitzerland is ranked as the world’smost innovative country, and CSEM isan integral part of this ecosystem. Wehave a long and established portfolio indeveloping biosensors, wearables, labautomation systems, and medical tools.We also work in the game-changingOrgan-on-Chip domain, which has thepotential to alter the face of drug devel-opment and open new doors when itcomes to combatting new illnesses likeCOVID-19. Connectivity is anotherSwiss specialty and your smartphone'sBluetooth was likely designed in thiscountry. In 2017, CSEM and the FederalInstitute of Technology in Lausanne de-veloped the world’s smallest Bluetoothchip, which was made commerciallyavailable by EM Microelectronic Marin(another Swiss company).

It is on this theme of connectivity thatwe can introduce Sleeping Beauty toBig Data. Our newly awake Princessneeds connecting to an entire popula-tion. The technologies behind theSwissCovid app make this interaction areality through Bluetooth and its capac-ity to manage and process largeamounts of data–Big Data. The DataScience field was born out of the needfor us to store the vast amounts of datawe began creating at the turn of themillennium, falling asleep twenty yearsago, and this entirely new field of sci-ence would have passed you by. CSEMhas had the foresight to develop two ofits economic prioritization frameworksaround teaching and researching BigData. It now focusses on enhancing and

1. Re-think product development based on AM – compliant mechanism developmentwith the ESA.

2. The neural network developed by CSEM analyzes images and locates small defects on industrial parts.

3. Miniature atomic vapor-cell Quantum devicesfor sensing and metrology application.

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transitioning microtechnologies to bringthem into the future. We specialize increating miniaturized, complex devicesthat operate at ultra- to low-power,which have advanced computing/com-munication capabilities, and can bepowered by the environment.

Drawing from its legacy in the precisionand watchmaking industries, CSEMblends both traditional and future tech-nologies, which perfectly positions it toface the challenges of today. By balanc-ing these elements, we can bring to-gether different networks, advance andenhance the microtechnology domain.If our Sleeping Beauty were to sleepagain and wake even in ten years’ time,we hope it would be to a world whereCOVID-19 no longer dominates ourlives, and Big Data will be smartly andsustainably used to benefit the futureeconomy.

www.csem.ch

«Managing to extinguish theCOVID-19 fireneeds the help ofsmart systems, asbiosensors or

wearables; Smart systems arealso the gears behind the newgold: data. Once the crisis isover, it’s data and smart sys-tems that will help us regainour wealth, health & jobs.»Georges Kotrotsios,VP, CSEM Marketing & Business Development

© Picture Ren

ata ba

tteries


Mag>> R&D + SERVICES

Instrumentations and expertise in the fields ofoptical and electron spectroscopies

Micro-lubrication of a gear wheel for watcheswith quantities of 5.0 nL with a volume repeatability of ±10%

Carbon testing laboratory and samples

© w

ww.pierrecuo

ny.ch

For life as well as for technologies, innovation is a question ofenvironments, with their challenges and synergies. WesternSwitzerland fuels innovation with the richest network for fruitfulrelationships.

Bottom, cathedral and old town of Fribourg

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Fostering sustainableinnovation at the heart of the Alps

EPFL Valais Wallis and its partners from the Energy-polis campus are creating an ecosystem for sustaina-ble development, research and innovation. Since itsimplantation in Sion in 2015, the school has built asolid reputation in the fields of energy, environmentand health.

A pole of excellence in researchThe origin of EPFL Valais Walliscan be traced back to 2012,

when a convention for the implantationof a permanent outpost of EPFL in thecity of Sion was signed with the Cantonof Valais. Three years later, in 2015, thefirst researchers began their activities.Since then, the city has also become thehome of the Energypolis campus, whichaims to bring under one roof EPFL ValaisWallis, HES-SO Valais-Wallis and TheArk Foundation, with a key focus on thefields of energy, green chemistry andthe alpine and polar environments aswell as health and rehabilitation.

A steady growthSo far, the Canton of Valais and the Cityof Sion have invested CHF 400 millionfor the development of the campus, athird of which attributed to EPFL. Theresearch units of EPFL Valais Wallis havealso been able to attract more than CHF85 million from other various sources offunding, notably through the support ofEuropean research programs and grantsfrom industrial partners.

This influx of capital has allowed the siteto grow steadily. With now 226 em-ployees and researchers from 40 nation-

alities, including 85 doctoral students,most of the original development ob-jectives stated in the 2012 Conventionwith the Canton of Valais have beenreached and exceeded.

The next phase of the project, dedi-cated to research on the alpine andpolar environments, will bring together200 additional researchers, includingthe Swiss Polar Institute, in the newALPOLE building in early 2022. Bythen, more than 400 people will be ac-tive on the EPFL site in Sion.

Technological platforms and full-scale demonstratorsEPFL Valais Wallis is also equipped withhigh end technology and shared instru-mentation, such as laser laboratories,chromatography, nuclear magnetic res-onance, electronic imaging, mass spec-trometry or X-Ray diffraction systems.These technological platforms allowthe conduct of both deep fundamentaland applied research activities.

To facilitate the emergence of more ef-ficient models, notably in the energydomain, researchers at EPFL ValaisWallis, in close collaboration with theHES-SO Valais-Wallis, will soon launchso-called «demonstrators», which arefull-scale test facilities for real-worldtesting of the technologies developedwithin the laboratories. The selectedprojects will be close to application,with the Canton of Valais supportingtheir initial development through adedicated CHF 5 million fund and withulterior development perspectives in-volving private industrial partners.

>> EPFL IN VALAIS

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1. The researchers at EPFL Valais Wallis haveaccess to state-of-the-art instrumenta-tions and expertise in the fields of opticaland electron spectroscopies, as well asnanoscale imaging and force spec-troscopy.

2. Dedicated mainly to scientific researchand innovation in the fields of energy,green chemistry, health and the environ-ment, EPFL Valais Wallis brings together226 researchers, administrative and tech-nical staff from 40 different nationalities.

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«At EPFL ValaisWallis, we are atthe forefront ofresearch and innovationaround CO2.»Vincent Hiroz, Deputy Director EPFL Valais Wallis

A strong innovation ecosystemSeveral startups stemming from the lab-oratories and research units of EPFLValais Wallis have been successfullylaunched in Sion, where they are able tobenefit from the campus’s strong inno-vation ecosystem. Among them, DePoly,which has developed a chemical-basedmethod for recycling PET containersthrough depolymerization. A disruptiveprocess that has just won the companyfirst place at the 2019 >>venture>>competition. The startup is currentlyscaling-up its technology from the labo-ratory to the industry and has receivedsupport from The Ark Foundation incu-bator.

In order to further accelerate the tech-nology transfer along the value chain,the campus will soon include a regionalbranch of the Switzerland InnovationPark Network West EPFL that will hoststartups and spin-offs from the Energy-polis campus as well as R&D and inno-vation units from industrial companies.The Innovation Park in Sion will alsooffer co-working spaces and access toscientific infrastructure, equipment andpre-industrial facilities.

valais.epfl.chenergypolis.ch

© EPF

L – Alain Herzog

© EPF

L – Alain Herzog

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Carbon materials :a deep knowledgeserving high efficiency

R&D Carbon is the world-leading supplier of know-how in the field of carbon electrodes. Its multi-disci-plinary and laterally-thinking team serves thealuminium, petroleum coke, pitch and electrode in-dustries worldwide.

>> R&D + SERVICES

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A fter 20 years of successful de-velopment work in the field ofcarbon materials at Swiss Alu-

minium Ltd (Alusuisse), Werner K. Fis-cher started his own business in 1986.He took over carbon materials develop-ment projects from Alusuisse, whichhad decided to abandon this sector. Hehad a clear vision of what the industryneeded: an ever better understandingof how electrode quality depends onraw material properties and process pa-rameters.

He built a technology centre in Sierre,Switzerland, where employees ofAlusuisse’s former carbon researchgroup found a new workplace. To-gether with Dr. Ulrich Mannweiler, alsoa former Alusuisse man who joinedR&D Carbon in 1988, he set up a newstrategy which is still valid today. R&DCarbon employs 30 engineers andskilled technical staff. They serve cus-tomers worldwide and maintain an ex-cellent network with technology andtrading companies.

R&D Carbon established five distinctareas of activity, each having its clear role: • Research & Development• Technical Services• Carbon Test Equipment• Laboratory Services• Trainings & Conferences

R&D Carbon's experts analyze the car-bon materials used in the metal indus-try. With many years of data analysisand a worldwide raw materials know-how, they offer a wide range of analy-ses to their customers, from singleparameter analysis to complete evalu-

ation. Their independent test results areglobally recognized. Their long expertiseand intensive research into carbon tech-nology provide solid support to R&DCarbon’s constant quest to improveproduct quality. R&D Carbon con-tributes substantially to reducing metalproduction costs and lowering capitalinvestment for production plants. Thecombination of the long experience,specific know-how and wide range ofinfrastructure allows R&D Carbon giv-ing a real added value to the technicalservices provided to its customers.

Providing outstanding technical servicesto detect deficiencies and potential forimprovement to its customers is an im-portant concern to R&D Carbon, and infact one of its core businesses. Often itcan be challenging to increase the pro-duction rate or improve product qualitywith minimal or no investment. R&DCarbon’s services range from technicalsupport for the production of all carbonmaterials, to plant audits and processoptimizations. In its technology centerR&D Carbon's specialists conduct pilotor bench scale trials and any kind of lab-oratory analysis with detailed evalua-tions. They analyze shipment samplesaccording to standardized ISO methodsfor certification of the specifications orfor arbitration purposes. In the over 30-

«The aim of R&DCarbon is to im-prove the qualityand the perform-ance of carbonelectrodes.»Matthieu Arlettaz, CEO

1. Anode CO2 reactivity testing.

2. Anode baking furnace.

3. Calibration materials.

Mag2.

year old history of R&D Carbon, itsservices have accomplished major im-provements in plants all over the world.

Its easily-operated and reliable test in-struments have set worldwide stan-dards for testing carbon products.These test instruments can measure allkey properties of carbon materialsbased on methods approved by DIN,ISO and ASTM standards. 75 % of theworld's anode production is monitoredwith R&D Carbon's test equipment. Intheir modern workshop they produceover 50 different test instruments. Be-fore shipment, each piece of equipmentundergoes several tests such as calibra-tion and cross-checks during the factoryacceptance tests to ensure that theequipment is accurate and reliable.

Finally, R&D Carbon organizes confer-ences in the field of carbon products forthe Aluminum industry, as well as train-ing courses about anode raw materials,anode production and anode behaviorin the smelter.

www.rd-carbon.com

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On collaborative innovation by Microcity

Stimulate, accelerate and promote innovation is themission of Microcity in Neuchâtel. Our ambition inrelation to small and medium-sized enterprises(SMEs) is to foster the culture of innovation and inparticular to support collaborative projects in thecontext of microtechnology.

E very SME should have the meansto innovate. However, innovationoften demands complementary

resources and skills, which are sometimesdifficult to identify and to engage in acomplex and/or traditional ecosystem.

Microcity offers SMEs being supportedby experienced entrepreneurs, in theframework of a pragmatic and person-alised approach. Together, we structureand accelerate your innovation projects.

We work in cooperation with compe-tence partners and networks: Dependingon your needs, we open the doors toworld-class R&D institutions or provideyou with privileged access to companies,specialists, coaches and funding organi-sations. Our main activites are thus thefactfinding, the matchmaking and thealignment to sustain collaborations. Tofacilitate the access, Microcity launchedin November 2020 a matchmaking plat-form (read the inserted article).

In order to initiate and validate (proof-of-concept) projects fast and straightfor-ward, Microcity, in cooperation withpartners, has won the NTN - InnovationBooster dedicated to «Future of Mi-crotechnology» (read the inserted article).

Microcity's unique SME programis bearing its promiseMicrocity supports SMEs on innovation,diversification and transformation. Webelieve that innovation has manyfacets; besides technology, the notionsof efficiency in processes, corporate cul-ture, value of the offer and digitisation(transversal) are of great importance.

Microcity has been stimulated 53 SMEs,discussed and structured 24 ideasowned by SMEs and has initiated 7 col-laborative innovation projects since thelaunch of the SME program in Decem-ber 2019.

www.microcity.ch

>> MICROCITY IN NEUCHÂTEL

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1. Micro-lubrication of a gear wheel forwatches with quantities of 5.0 nL with a volume repeatability of ±10%.

2. Watchmaking not only shaped the UNESCO-listed architecture in La Chaux-de-Fonds or Le Locle, its broad technicalknow-how and tools were a source andinspiration for today's precision microtechnologies in WesternSwitzerland.

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«The competencedensity of our region is extraor-dinarily high,let's innovate together!»Fabian Käser, head of theSME programme

NTN – Innovation Booster on «Future of Microtechnology»

In addition to strengthening the support forSMEs, Microcity is pleased to join one of the12 approved «NTN - Innovation Booster» pro-grams sponsored by Innosuisse. The NationalThematic Network in question deals with the«Future of Microtechnology» and aims to an-imate the ecosystem, to test the feasibility ofideas and to foster the competitiveness of theSwiss microtechnology industry. During thefunding period 2021-2024, the program in-tends to initiate and finance 45 collaborativeprojects executed in cooperation with actorsfrom industry, economy and research. TheNTN - Innovation Booster is managed in co-operation with ARCM, i-Moutier, ITS, AITI, SIPWEST EPFL (core partners) and Innosuisse. Callfor action: SMEs with an innovative idea in thecontext of microtechnology, please contact us. www.microtechbooster.swissMicronarc is involved in the ecosystem of thisNTN.

Success Story - Collaboration ProjectAlong the Value Chain

In the field of life sciences (LS) and selectivesurface treatment, Microcity has initiated aconsortium composed of 6 companies. Themembers represent the added value chain,whereby everyone has a unique selling propo-sition and thus its own positioning; this ex-cludes a competitive situation between thepartners. The competences of the partnercompanies consist in the formulation of thetreatment medium, the automated applicator,the clean room treatment, the quality assur-ance, and the conformity (manufacturer) of LSproducts.

In a first step, the consortium, with the helpof a specialist and the moderation by Microc-ity, develops the business intelligence to bet-ter understand the relevant market segment,its needs, players and trends. The objectivesof this collaborative project are, on the onehand, to enable each partner to optimise itsown business development (low-hanging-fruits) and, on the other hand, to identify syn-ergies to sustain the cooperation between thepartners.

Matchmaking Innovation Neuchâtel

Microcity's matchmaking platform for collab-orative innovation projects. Do you have anidea to make your company evolve? You willbe able to identify Neuchâtel's industrial andscientific partners, according to their areas ofexpertise.

www.matchmaking.microcity.ch

22 IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine

Watch dial feet welding equipment

Mag 23

ALPS Vision system acquisition

Compact robotics for watchmaker

The living world is a place of ingenious solutions at everystage of its complexity. Micro & nanotechnologies openedan entire universe of engineered solutions that WesternSwitzerland is continuously improving, shaping, manufactur-ing to the ultimate precision, from the smallest parts to fullproduction chains.

The suspended bridge of the Peak Walk on the Glacier 3000, Les Diablerets. Vaud

© Glacier30

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© Glacier30

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>> MACHINES, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT & AUTOMATION

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Automated microassembly

Since 1991, ALPS Automation SA has been at the forefront in the developmentof comprehensive electrical and pneumatic automation solutions for renowned,industry-leading clientele active in the pharmaceutical, fine chemical, food,watchmaking, infrastructures and various other sectors. Oriented towards thepresent and future needs of its customers, as well as anticipating future trends,ALPS Automation keeps on adding new services to its portfolio such as IndustrialVision, Data Automation and lately Machine & Equipment Safety expertise viaits sister company ALPS Safety SA.

S ince its founding in 1973, Petit-pierre SA, an ALPS Automationcustomer, has been active in two

key areas: the development and manu-facture of high-end watchmaking toolsand the assembly equipment of watch-making and microtechnical components.The company has been established since1982 in Neuchatel County where it oc-cupies modern and functional premises.

Everything related to high-endwatch componentsAround 1990 a decisive turning pointwas achieved with the development ofsemi-automatic and automatic assemblysolutions of watch components for majorbrands, with a special competence in thefield of exhaust mechanisms. Everythingabout high-end watch components istheir daily business.

From hand tools to fully auto-mated assembly systemsIn the field of watchmaking tools, Petit-pierre SA, an ALPS Automation client,has developed a whole range of preci-sion hand tools, contained where neces-

sary in luxurious cases or in specially fittedcases. For example, eight-digit torquescrewdrivers or biocompatible soft andfog-proof magnifiers. In this context,tools have been developed and achievedto provide solutions adapted to the spe-cific needs of users, for example, nestingcushions, equipment for flattening thespiral, «hand levers» for lifting the handsof a watch without damaging them, orfour-point measuring devices for meas-uring Ø int. and ext. in the 0.000 of mm.

In the field of assembly solutions, sincethe achievements are specific to the ap-plications, it is always the same schemethat prevails: a pre-study with, if neces-sary, feasibility tests for critical functions,then a project submission with detailedoffer to the customer. The most criticaland decisive element often relates to thedesign of the fittings, which are necessar-ily in direct contact with the products tobe assembled.

This is how semi-automatic assemblystations, fully automatic assembly ma-chines and complete assembly lines aredesigned, including all operations, fromassembly, forming, crimping, vision con-trol and balancing.


«From the URS till the algorithmof the IndustrialVision solution,ALPS Automa-tion delivered itall.»Cyril Faivre, Commercialand Marketing Director ofALPS Automation & Safety

Mag

Automation, control and vision«These machines, for example, assemblewatch barrels. They are generally com-posed, among other things, of multi-sta-tion rotary tables and palletizers. On thebasis of the URS (User RequirementSpecification) provided by the customer,ALPS Automation first wrote the Func-tional Design Specification (FDS). Afterapproval, the automation and supervi-sion experts at ALPS Automation havedeveloped a library of standard objectssuch as cylinders, motors, axis motors,etc., on a Beckhoff PC basis with Won-derware supervision. Then we pro-grammed the PCs, the supervision, aswell as the Cognex machine vision partand finally put into operation all thesecomponents» says Cyril Faivre.

ALPS Automation currently employsabout sixty employees. «The most impor-tant wealth a company has is its humancapital» he insists. «We know that with-out it, nothing is possible, neither todaynor tomorrow, and we try to provideeveryone with the best possible environ-ment so that they can develop their mo-tivation and creativity. We place particularemphasis on personal initiative and com-mitment of employees to the company.»

Safety as per 2006/42/CERecently a new entity dedicated to Ma-chine Safety has been created calledALPS Safety. The main activities consistin Risk Analysis, Compliance withISO13849 recommendation, TechnicalDocumentation, Safety audits, 2006/42/CE marking, etc.ALPS Automation and ALPS Safety arelocated in Yverdon (Vaud County) andVouvry (Wallis County) to be as close aspossible to its customers (machinebuilders and end users.)

www.alpsautomation.ch

1. Automatic machine for microassembly.

2. ALPS Vision system acquisition.

3. Electrical engineering using E-Plan P8.

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that are now finding their way into pro-duction shop floors.Continuous data analysis, status moni-toring, automated and monitoredprocesses, cooperation with industrialrobots – these are the challenges thatthe factory of the future will face.Thanks to the Smart Connectivity solu-tions from Rollomatic, these challengescan be much more easily addressed inthe field of tool manufacturing.

Industrial robot generatinggreater added valueThe department Humanoid Power ofRollomatic proposes NEXTAGE®, a newtype of humanoid industrial robot.Given its human-like frame, it can easilybe placed where a person used to standand perform tasks in locations that aredifficult for traditional robots. Thisrobot uses its head and two arms,equipped with cameras, to take overany tedious or repetitive tasks, allowingworkers to focus on areas that generategreater added value.

A new milestone in the industryAlways eager to innovate, Rollomatichas set a new milestone not only in itshistory but also in the cutting tool busi-ness with the GrindSmart®830XW, thefirst and unique concept in the toolgrinding industry which integrates theinnovative combination of hydrostatictechnology and linear motors. It is im-pressive not only on paper but also inpractice, as proved by the positivefeedback from users who typicallymention that surface finishes and cut-

ting edges are of a quality superior tomarket standards.

Unlimited applications with thenew laser machining Rollomatic has also decided to invest inlaser technologies and released theLaserSmart 510, which provides ad-vanced machining processes for super-hard material such as PCD, CVDdiamond, monocrystalline diamond,natural diamond and PCBN. This highlyproductive technology delivers out-standing quality and opens up un-dreamed-of possibilities such asextremely sharp cutting edges with radiiof 0.001 mm or less. Unique to the mar-ket, programmable defined cutting-edge preparations offer total freedomand flexibility to enhance the cuttingtool's performance during machining.

Well trained, optimally operatedRollomatic pays special attention to cus-tomer needs and continuously developsits services to maintain high productioncapabilities of their machines. It under-stands the importance of having ahighly qualified team dedicated to itsclients around the world. The companyis currently setting up a structured acad-emy system called The RollomaticLearning Center, which will offer nu-merous courses conducted by highlyqualified, multilingual experts. Thecourses will cover everything fromgrinding and maintenance to lean pro-duction, laser technology and robotics.

www.rollomatic.ch

27

From milestones in cutting tools to«humanoid power»

Since its debut in 1989, the private Swiss companyRollomatic is specializing in the design and manufac-turing of high precision CNC grinding machines, cylin-drical grinding and laser cutting of ultra-hard materialsfor the machine tool industry.

1. NEXTAGE®, a new type of humanoid industrial robot generating greater addedvalue.

2. Innovation and technology are the focus of our solutions for producing high performance cutting tools.

3. With our DNA as cutting tool producers,we are able to assist and support our customers throughout the whole cuttingtool manufacturing process.


Mag3.

W ith its headquarters in LeLanderon, near Neuchâtel,customer-oriented Rollomatic

provides complete manufacturing solu-tions for the grinding of precision toolsand parts, as wells as peripheral equip-ment for wheel dressing and tool meas-urement. Working hand-in-hand with the coun-try's top universities, Rollomatic bene-fits of a close collaboration with theEPFL and is proud to have an officewith a team of engineers and studentsat the Innovation Park in the EPFLCampus in Lausanne. It focuses its re-search on the 4th industrial generationincluding the differential geometry, thematerial science and optics in order todevelop new machining processes.

The way to Smart FactoryAs a leader in its industry, Rollomaticpays special attention to customerneeds and continuously develops itsservices to maintain high productioncapabilities of their machines. Thecompany devotes a large part of itswork to smart factory, autonomousproduction, machine connectivity, theInternet of Things (IoT): technologies

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A broad portfolio ofautomation solutions

Unimec SA, a swiss manufacture based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, offers varioustechnological solutions for assembly, welding, sorting, components feedingand also dynamic measuring and ageing equipment. These products are es-pecially adapted for implementation in the fields of MedTech, Watchmaking,Avionics, Automobile, Connectors and Microtechnics in general.


Mag

I n order to answer more accuratelyto the market’s expectations,Unimec SA can rely on its innova-

tion-oriented structure. All skills andmeans of production or developmentare available internally. Experts in me-chanics, electronics, software, vision andmachining, lean on complete milling,assembly and wiring departments forachieving customer projects on time.

AutomationThanks to more than 40 years of ex-pertise, Unimec SA is now able to pres-ent a broad portfolio of automationsolutions, whose most renowned prod-uct is the so-called Pick & Place robot.The pneumatic range has been supple-mented in the last few years by electricrobots capable of a positioning accuracyof +/- 5 µm and a working rate of up to150 cycles/min. The automation port-folio gathers many other units, electricand pneumatic rotary tables with orwithout indexing function, pressure andvacuum units, flexible feeding systems,motorised linear axis, positioning slidesand many more. Innovation in the areaof automation means for the firm to relyon its proven expertise but also to investin new technologies linked to electron-ics, software and Industry 4.0. But what

about the human factor? Unimec SA isconvinced that its success strongly de-pends on the professional growth of itsassociates and on its ability to listenclosely to its customers and users who,through their needs, influence tomor-row’s technologies.

Dynamic measuring and ageingmachines Over time and through evolution inwatchmaking requirements, Unimec SAhas created a department entirely ded-icated to qualification and quality con-trol laboratories. The firm offersstandard and specific equipment for thedynamic measurement of torque, force,shock, vibration, traction, compression,rotation, etc… This department is alsoworking for thriving sectors, such as theMedTech, Avionics, Automobile orConnectors, all very demanding in re-gards of products qualification and re-liability. Innovation in the area of

«Our develop-ments are yoursolutions for tomorrow.»Emmanuel Remonnay,General Director

measuring and ageing machines meansfor Unimec SA a very close cooperationwith its customers, maintaining a strictconfidentiality and a permanent tech-nological watch on standards. What isthe purpose of such equipment? Theindustry is consistently reinventing it-self. It needs ever more sophisticatedproducts, in short delivery times and re-sponding to high quality requirements.Dynamic test equipment enables thevalidation of a product in an interactiveway, all along its development and atest of its lifespan in acceleration. Forthe fields involved, such an equipmentis a guarantee of success.

Watch dial feet equipment, integratingvarious forefront technologies, is agood illustration of Unimec SA capabil-ities for a specific application.

www.unimecsa.ch

1. Automatic assembly line for MedTech industry.

2. Watch torque test in 5 heads-version.

3. Watch dial feet welding equipment.

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31>> MACHINES, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT & AUTOMATION

The Smart Micro Factory

HoroSys SA, created in 2015 in La Chaux-de-Fonds,manufactures ultra-compact robotic stations anddesigns miniaturised automatic systems ensuringprecision assembling and handling for microtechni-cal and watchmaking small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). consuming 3 kilowatts to machine, as-

semble, measure or control componentsweighing only a few grams? The naturalanswer is miniaturisation. Another keypoint is ease of use. Today we have be-come accustomed to not necessitatingan instruction manual, for example withour smartphones, thus being able toquickly choose a new application. In ourprivate lives we've seamlessly reorientedour centres of interest around everydaytechnological objects, why not so withproduction machines?

HoroSys' Smart Micro Factory (SMF)range of automatic equipment offersthe possibility of integrating miniature«bricks», by function, by trade, alwayswith the same mechanical, software andintelligent automatic components base.This allows the production line to becompletely recombined or reconfiguredvery quickly and with a minimum of ef-fort. Able to adapt easily to a new task,it allows the user complete freedom toadapt to changing needs.

These SMF robotic stations already offerassembling, quality control and handlingfunctions that can be integrated intoother existing production facilities. Pri-marily active for precision operations onmicrotechnical and watchmaking prod-ucts, HoroSys offers and integrates themost repeatable (5 microns), compactand easy-to-install robot, the Meca500from Mecademic in Canada. The strate-gic partnership with this company sinceits creation in 2016 in Montreal hasmade it possible to meet the demand ofmicrotechnology in robotics: precision,simplicity, compactness and controlledcost. It has become a key element of theSMF robotic stations.

1. Compact robotics for watchmaker.

2. Robotic assembly line on a desk.

3. Loading of a grinding machine with visionsystem.

In perpetual evolution, the next modularstations will offer washing, surface treat-ment, additive manufacturing and ma-chining.

HoroSys relies on a network of skills tobuild this equipment. It is no longer con-ceivable to do everything alone, to in-ternalise all the necessary trades.Technologies are advancing very rapidlyand require countless specialised re-sources. To create automatic equipment,today we need not only «machinebuilders» and automation specialists,but also AI specialists, advanced com-puter engineers in machine learning,deep learning, Big Data scientist, roboti-cists and many other experts. Collabo-ration and partnerships between manyspecialists are the key to the success ofeach project developed. HoroSys, as anintegrator, plays the role of conductorand tester of new technologies.

www.horosys.ch

«Reduce the sizeof machines inorder to savemoney, our concept of today.»Christophe Taramarcaz,Founder and Director

1.

The Industrial Revolution 4.0, thedigitalisation of production, artifi-cial intelligence, modularity and

flexibility have become a reality in thefield of automation and robotics, andthis is only the beginning of the evolu-tion towards intelligent and self-adap-tive machines.

It has begun with the need to meet flex-ible, customised and fast production. Butwho benefits from this evolution of ourtools and machines? Mainly large com-panies with the resources, both financialand skilled labour, with large productionvolumes, short payback times and along-term vision of their market. Theyare also always very receptive to newtechnological solutions and are con-stantly looking for productivity andquality gains.

Unfortunately, the large majority ofSMEs are struggling to equip themselveswith robotic technology despite their in-terest and need to increase their produc-tivity. Because of their low short-terminvestment capacity, their fear of lackingcompetent resources and sometimes anunsuitable infrastructure, they simplycannot invest in customised automaticequipment, which is very costly to de-velop, or in robots requiring skills thatare unfortunately difficult to obtain.

HoroSys' team of engineers works in thewake of Industry 4.0 precisely to meetSMEs' needs to provide efficient, com-pact but above all simple and inexpen-sive automation solutions.

The basic idea for all the developmentsis to rethink the way of producing: is itnecessary to have an 800 kg equipment,

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Mag

32 IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine>> ELECTRONICS, MICRO-ELECTRONICS

What risks do you accept to take in case of failure of the electronics of your products?

Mag 33

Multi-levels 18 μm wedge bonding

We just see a few of the myriads of interconnected tiny partswhich make nature and our daily life efficient, informed,comfortable. Alike we have just glimpses of how deep thou-sands of researchers and developers in Western Switzerlandcontribute with micro & nano technologies to make bothlocal and global worlds smarter: efficient, informed, com-fortable.

View from an ice cave into Loetschental, Valais

© swiss-im

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Inventive assembling of microcircuits withSwissMade precision

Founded over 30 years ago, Hybrid SA is your spe-cialist in the industrialisation and assembly of micro-electronic circuits, from simple to complex products,from low to high component densities. Situatedalong Lake Neuchâtel, we produce more than1’000’000 circuits every year.

T he challenge was daunting be-cause the chip was intended anddesigned to be assembled in a ce-

ramic case with the use of gold wire toconnect it (a technology called BallBonding). However, for reasons specificto our client, we were asked to mountit on a predetermined printed circuit,technology called Chip On Board(COB). This change in process no longerallowed the use of a golden wire. Witha chip thus initially intended for packa-ging, it was necessary to roll up oursleeves in order to meet the customer'sneeds.

To achieve this, we had to use an alu-minum alloy bonding wire (technologycalled Wedge Bonding) of very smalldiameter (18 μm, instead of the usual25 μm). This allowed us to assemble onBonds Pads Opening of 30 μm x45 μm, close to the capacity limits ofour machines, with a pitch (space) of55 μm, using three levels of wires. Inaddition to that, the two rows of wireson the chip, spaced 40 μm apart, were

not suitable for aluminum wire technol-ogy. Therefore, it was necessary to cre-ate a special tool to allow the wiringof the second row of wires withoutdamaging the first.

We found ourselves confronted withanother problem: the physics of thewires. Due to the small diameter andthe length of some - the longest meas-uring 4.5 mm - the risk of breakageduring assembly, as well as the risk ofshorting adjacent wires due to theirweight, was high. Our engineers wereable to remedy these problems by ex-ploring machine parameters and wireshapes.

Everyone's choices and efforts provedeffective, as it was possible to producethe desired 5’000 or so parts, whilemaintaining the high standards of qual-ity demanded by the product.

It is by overcoming such challenges thatwe have forged in-depth expertise ofthese processes, which allows us toachieve assemblies that others mightrefuse.

We live in a world where the presenceof microelectronics has become essen-tial. In our role as a subcontractor, ourclients come from a variety of fields:watchmaking, mechanical industry,medicine, security, nuclear power andresearch, to name but a few examples.

>> ELECTRONICS, MICRO-ELECTRONICS

«The expertise ofour employeesmakes your mostcomplex projectspossible.»Dominique Valantin, Market Development Manager

Mag

We have made the assembly of micro-electronic circuits our specialty and areable to achieve the objectives set bythe product specifications defined incollaboration with the client. It is nec-essary to have recourse not only to cut-ting edge machines but also to aknow-how that combines a set ofprocesses we have learned to master inour thirty years of experience, and es-pecially to the expertise of each em-ployee.

The assembly of the product is themost visible part of the chain, but notalways the most complex. To be able toassemble a product with more than200’000 parts with always the samelevel of quality, it is imperative to haveall the processes under control; fromunderstanding the needs of our cus-tomers to the shipment of parts, in-cluding the design of the printedcircuits, the supply of components andthe manufacturing. Our system, certi-fied to ISO 9001 and 13485 standards,is the guarantee of the quality of ourwork.

It is by surmounting difficulties like theone explained above that we grow andaccumulate our know-how and is whyour high-tech clients return to us re-peatedly.

www.hybrid.swiss

1. Wires: Aluminium alloy / Diameter: 18 μm /Number of wires: 460 / Longest wire: 4,5 mm / Height of wires: Max. 800 μm.

2. Bonds Pads Opening: 30 μm x 45 μm /Pitch (space): 55 μm / Space betweenrows: 40 μm / Zoom: 250x.

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Mag>> ELECTRONICS, MICRO-ELECTRONICS

CapQua Sàrl is a Swiss company based in Neuchâtel,founded in April 2018. Two years later, it was accred-ited as an IPC Training Center and proposes its serv-ices of trainings, certifications of persons and expertiseof special processes for the electronics industry.

F ounded in 1957, IPC - AssociationConnecting Electronics Industries®

is an international association ofmore than 3,000 member companiesaround the world, including Alcatel, Boe-ing, Cisco, GE, Huawei, Intel, NASA,Samsung, etc. This association publishesmore than 300 international standardsthat represent the state of the art in elec-tronics, from the design to the repair ofelectronic boards. And it manages apanel of international person certifica-tions that demonstrate and ensure thecompetence of the people involved inthe processes of electronic assembly pro-duction.

These IPC standards and certificationsare developed by an ecosystem of com-panies developing, manufacturing, inte-grating, repairing electronic assembliesfor the aerospace, railway, medical de-vices, watchmaking, IoT, computer, etc.For decades, companies in this ecosys-tem have had a staff which is certified

«IPC Specialist» to ensure the reliabilityof their products, control costs and re-duce production lead times.

These «IPC Specialist» must renew theircertification(s) every two years to main-tain their level of competency. This en-sures that they are familiar with IPCstandards, thus they work according thestate of the art and that they are up todate with the latest technical develop-ments. These certifications are carriedout, in particular within IPC TrainingCenters, by certified «IPC Trainers», whoalso have to renew their trainer qualifi-cation every two years.

For several decades, all over the worldand in many European countries, therehave been one or several IPC TrainingCenters per country. However, until April2020, Switzerland was one of the fewEuropean countries without such a cen-ter. After two years of activities, invest-ments and thanks to the skills of itsfounder, CapQua Sàrl obtained the ac-creditation of IPC Training Center and fi-nally fills this gap in order to maintainhighly qualified jobs in Switzerland.

Since July 2019, CapQua Sàrl offers themain IPC certifications. And as soon aspossible, it will be possible to pass all IPCcertifications in Switzerland. The objec-tive is to support Swiss companies thatneed to have certified personnel. Firstly,by avoiding that they are forced to sendtheir staff to be certified abroad or that

1. What risks do you accept to take in caseof failure of the electronics of your pro-ducts?

2. Examples of defects described in IPC-A-610:

a. Nonwetting of the solder joint on the lead

b. Fractured solder connections and liftedland.

3. Replacement of an IC with hot air accor-ding to IPC-7711/21.

A swiss training on IPC standards and certifications

«Quality is notcontrolled, it isperformed...when the handbecomes spirit.»Pierre Rogé, Founder & Director

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With an expert trainer with several IPC certifi-cations, and a network that has a multidisci-plinary know-how of more than 50 years inelectronics, CapQua Sàrl offers quality con-sulting for special processes, expertise andqualifications of people according to:• IPC-A-600: Acceptability of Printed Boards,• IPC-A-610: Acceptability of Electronic As-semblies,

• IPC/WHMA-A-620: Requirements and Ac-ceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assem-blies,

• IPC J-STD-001: Requirements for SolderedElectrical and Electronic Assemblies,

• IPC-7711/21: Rework, Modification and Re-pair of Electronic Assemblies.

they bring in European trainers. And sec-ondly, by developing a center of excel-lence in electronics with local skills thatcan respond quickly to their issues.

By developing these IPC certifications,CapQua Sàrl wishes to contribute ac-tively to the economic development ofSwitzerland, in particular by disseminat-ing high level knowledge, by creating allthe conditions to guarantee the nextgeneration and a sufficient number ofqualified professionals.

And Swiss companies active in sectorswhere the safety of people is at stakesuch as medical, aerospace, energy,transport and IoT will have the same ad-vantages as their foreign competitorswhile benefiting from the insurance of-fered by these IPC standards and certifi-cations.

www.capqua.ch

IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine


Mag>> MEDICAL

A view of the technology inside the bra using3D array of ultrasound probes.

The MorphomerTM platform generates smallmolecules binding specifically to misfoldedproteins.

Life is about balance and fine tuning of innumerable, fast,invisible processes. Technologies at the smallest scales asso-ciated with digital data processing are tackling the challengeof mastering further and further the «innumerable», the«fast», the «invisible». To help us quietly enjoy a balancedlife in the visible...

© Jo

nathan

Fuchs

Etang de la Gruère, Jura

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Mag>> MEDICAL

«Healing differently»- detecting breastcancer at home

IcosaMed, founded in 2019, wants to early detectand actively prevent cancers, especially breast cancer.Positioned as a complementary and synergistic ap-proach with existing solutions, this represents atremendous hope for public health: early detection,just by wearing personal clothing.

doses delivery, using the same hardware.For the echography, the migration of thistechnique from the hospital to a smartclothing has been recognized as a truedisruption since the early presentationsat Medica and at the CES: no one elsehad seen that before. The first prototypeof the smart bra, having ultrasoundprobes at the contact of the skin, aprinted circuit board, a battery and wire-less connected to your smartphone,meet a large interest from people. Thereis no equivalent in the market today forsmart clothing in detection and activeprevention of cancers. The patent re-mains a key aspect: it does address anyclothes using ultrasound transducerswith the goal of treatment, preventionand detection - that has been publishedin August 2020. But it really goes be-yond that: providing the ability for any-body to monitor cancer prevalence inreal time. Technically, this device earlydetects any further unexpected growthcell using discrete ultrasound probes.With AI and statistical modelling, anysuspicious behavior of cells will be ana-lyzed, using 3D imaging. If within twoweeks the model confirms a continuoustrend, then the app will advice to get amedical examination. Technical partnershave been key since day 1: the technicalintegrator Turck Duotec in Delémont,who built the first prototype and theEPFL, who worked on the skin interfaceto mimic the impedance gel. «Sometechnical questions remain open» con-tinues Max Boysset. «However, we areconfident to use existing robust tech-

1. A view of the technology inside the brausing 3D array of ultrasound probes.

2. Products portfolio: under the umbrella ofthe patent, the smartbra is the first ofmany smart clothing, using the sametechnology.

3. First prototype (exibited at Medica inDüsseldorf and at the CES in Las Vegas).

niques to address those». Indeed, theprototyping phase continues, and thedelivery of a functional demonstrator ison its way. «Next step will be to insertthis second prototype within a bra»,Max Boysset adds. The company is nowopened to investors: the financial needfor putting the product on the marketrepresents 5M CHF. Half of the fundswill be used for the technical and indus-trial aspects while the second half will bededicated to communication. «This proj-ect is so exciting and disruptive; we havethe right team and partners and the rightpathway to make it concrete». The ben-efit for health is obvious and the outlookare immense: after the bra, other prod-ucts are already identified. Underpantswill address the sphere monitoring col-orectal, bladder, ovarian, testicular,prostate cancer. And a body suit will ad-dress lung cancer «We are so excited toprovide this device to people: this is amission that wakes you up a night».

www.icosamed.com

«Nobody de-mands, every-body contributes.Far beyond aproject and acompany goal:this is our way tocontribute topeople’s health.»Dr. Max Boysset, CEO

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E arly detection of cancer: that is theaim of the company. Why doingthat? It is not only because cancer

remains a leading cause of death world-wide: more and more techniques anddrugs today can address cancer specifi-cally and treat. The reason lies in earlyactions: putting all efforts together toearly detect and act before cancer startshaving large effects. «This is why we arehere» says Max Boysset, founder, andCEO of the company.

«Treating cancer means arriving too lateand that could be avoided». If early de-tected, all other aspects associated withcancer treatment are avoided: pain, anx-iety, usual adverse events of drug thera-pies. This prevent long hospital stays aswell. Comfort wise, this is a huge benefitfor the patient. IcosaMed wants to earlydetect cancer, to avoid entering themedical sphere of oncology. This is atotal disruptive approach. The techniqueof ultrasound, a proven technologyagainst cancer, has been chosen for cov-ering echography’s and potential higher

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Mag>> MEDICAL

Specialists in precision assembly systems

Lécureux became famous in the 1960s after invent-ing the first electric screwdriver for watchmaking.Since then, the company has custom-designed arange of assembly solutions for the medical devicesand microtechnology industries. Its director, GérardJeanfavre, discusses the company’s development ofautomated and semi-automated systems for clientswho work with small parts. F or nearly 50 years, Lécureux has

been manufacturing precision in-struments. Located in Bienne,

Switzerland, at the heart of the Swisswatchmaking industry, the company hasmany watchmakers among its clients.However, it rapidly became apparentthat its type of products would suit themedical devices industry too.

Its signature product – an electric screw-driver – was invented in the 1960s, andis still what the company is best knownfor. This screwdriver is used in the assem-bly of watches as well as in other appli-cations (like medical devices) whereprecision and exactitude are key.

Since then, Lécureux has expanded itsportfolio to include a full range of assem-bly systems, both fully and partially au-tomated. These include manualscrewdrivers, screwdriver controllers,measuring systems and tabletop assem-bly products. All are tailored towardssmall – or very small – components. AsGérard Jeanfavre, director of Lécureux,points out, big parts are not the com-pany’s domain.«We work exclusively with small compo-

nents measuring 50 mm and under, forpart manipulation and assembly,» hesays. «Our solutions range from a singlecell with one robot and some controlequipment inside, to a huge assemblyline with 50 cells with many robots in-side, along with the logistics of all theparts between the cells.» He adds thateach product is custom designed, mean-ing if you have a specific need and don’tfind what you’re looking for on the mar-ket, Lécureux will be able to develop itfor you.«Customers will come to us and explaintheir needs, and then we develop a con-cept» says Jeanfavre. «We show themour idea for how we could manipulate orassemble the parts, explaining the differ-ent processes inside the product andevery point that is important for the proj-ect. Maybe they say ‘Okay, we can gowith that’, or, ‘No, that’s wrong; youhave to change it’. We make such proj-ect reviews at every important step ofdevelopment.»

After developmentOnce the development process is com-pleted, the company moves on to pro-duction and assembly. «At each step ofthe assembly process, we ask the cus-tomer to come to our company, if possi-ble, to validate the process» Jeanfavreexplains. «When the product is finished,we deliver it to the customer’s company,where we commission and set up theequipment, and ensure it fits their re-quirements.»Over the years, Lécureux has cultivateda strong expertise in mechanical andsoftware engineering, robotics andmeasurement.

Following a wave of company acquisi-tions in the 1990s, it diversified its offer-ing and built up skills in many differenttypes of assembly lines. Today, it has ateam of 20 people in software develop-ment, working across the likes of processsystems enterprise (PSE) and vision soft-ware, as well as a team of mechanicalengineers who can produce precisionmechanical components.The next step for Lécureux will be togrow its business into new markets.Today, it maintains a research networkacross Europe, with offices in Italy,France, Finland and Germany. It servesthe Asian market too, with an office inShenzhen, China. Jeanfavre now hopesto expand into North and South Amer-ica, and boost the company’s presenceacross Northern Europe. «We are takingthis step by step» he insists.

The company is also looking to expandits product assortment. As the market forconventional assembly lines becomessaturated, Lécureux aims to exceed cus-tomer expectations and providesomething new. To take just one exam-ple, the company is developing a newmodular assembly cell that could be usedwith a range of different parts.«One cell can produce up to one millionpieces a year and, with 15 robots insidethe cell, it can do 15 operations at thesame time,» says Jeanfavre. «We haveone customer in the smart watch indus-try but it could be dedicated to medicaldevices too. We have started develop-ment of this prototype and it will beavailable at the end of 2020.»

www.lecureux.ch

«I am proud ofmy employees,they are commit-ted every day tooffer the best toour customers.Especially in thesedifficult times.»Gérard Jeanfavre, Director

1. eScrew Speed is an electric screwdriverwith a wide torque range, from 50 mNmto 250 mNm, along with a positioning accuracy of 2 degrees.

2. A key competence of Lecureux SA is thehandling, assembly and control of small or very small components.

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45>> MEDICAL

Pioneering precisionmedicine for neurodegeneration

Worldwide every 3 seconds, a person is diagnosedwith dementia and by 2050, cases could triple to 152million. Founded at the EPFL Innovation Park in 2003,AC Immune SA, a Swiss biotech, is developing diag-nostics and therapeutics to address dementia, one ofthe greatest healthcare challenges.

L oss of memory and spatial orien-tation, difficulty in planning and inperforming familiar tasks, these

are the symptoms that heavily impactthe daily activities of the 50 million peo-ple living with Alzheimer’s disease. Cur-rently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’sdisease and approved treatments onlyprovide temporary relief from symptomsbut do not stop the cognitive decline.

Neurodegeneration is caused by pro-teins that are present in the healthybrain but have gone awry. When theymisfold, their three-dimensional struc-ture is altered which prevents their nor-mal functioning. Now pathological,these proteins form insoluble aggregatesand become harmful to neurons, even-tually leading to their death.

To cure Alzheimer’s disease, several chal-lenging obstacles need to be overcome.First, even if these proteins are toxic toneurons, our immune system does notgenerate a response against them, be-cause they are not foreign. Second, thedifference between the pathological andthe normal structure of the protein issmall. It comes down to a small differ-ence in its shape, making it difficult fora drug to target it selectively. Third, thereis mounting evidence that Alzheimer’sdisease, like cancer, does not have a sin-gle culprit. A variety of proteins can mis-fold, induce structural changes in otherproteins and spread across the brain.

Alzheimer’s disease is a broad spectrumof overlapping protein disorders. Finally,diagnosis often occurs only when symp-toms become obvious, but at this stage,the disease has already been progressingsilently for several years and caused ir-reversible damage.

AC Immune’s strategy is driven by adeep understanding of the science ofprotein misfolding. Using our two tech-nology platforms, SupraAntigenTM andMorphomerTM, we intend to developprecision diagnostics and therapeutics toidentify and remove those misfoldedproteins that drive disease progression.We are convinced that our precisionmedicine approach, similar to what isnow common practice in oncology,could increase the chances of treatmentsuccess.

We leverage our platforms to developbiomarkers for earlier diagnosis, whichcannot be achieved by only monitoringclinical symptoms. Since these are similaracross diseases, analyzing the brains ofpatients is crucial to select the best treat-ment. Reliable detection of protein ac-cumulation in specific brain areas allowsfor better differentiation of diseases.

Depending on the diagnosis, we willneed targeted interventions at variousstages of disease progression. The useof therapies with unique molecularproperties and distinct mechanisms of

1. Microscopy image showing neurons (yellow) and the pathological forms ofthe protein alpha-synuclein (green) targeted by AC Immune’s antibodies.

2. The MorphomerTM platform generatessmall molecules binding specifically tomisfolded proteins.

3. The SupraAntigenTM platform uses peptideantigens attached to liposomes to createvaccines and antibodies.

«From diagnos-tics to therapeu-tics: we aim todevelop a com-prehensive preci-sion medicineapproach.»Andrea Pfeifer, CEO

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action will allow intervention at differentstages of the disease: removing mis-folded protein before it aggregates, pre-venting spreading of the protein acrossthe brain or promoting disaggregationat later stages. Our pipeline of thera-peutic candidates, composed of vac-cines, antibodies and small molecules,targets a broad array of pathologicalproteins, including classical hallmarks ofAlzheimer’s disease, such as amyloid-beta and Tau, as well as novel targets,such as alpha-synuclein and TDP-43.

The value of our pipeline is validatednot only by the strong preclinical andclinical data generated, but also by ACImmune’s collaborations with majorpharmaceutical companies includingGenentech, a member of the Rochegroup, Eli Lilly and Company andJanssen Pharmaceuticals.

We believe that identification of an in-dividual's molecular drivers of diseaseand delivery of optimally tailored andtimed interventions will allow combina-tions for treating a broader spectrum ofthe disease and offer greater efficacy.Differentiating patient populationsbased on their biomarkers could lead toa better understanding of the diseaseand accelerate the development of suc-cessful combination therapies.

www.acimmune.com

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Mag>> MEDICAL

Go By Yourself !

GBY develops, produces and sells the Go-Tryke, athree-wheeled bicycle for people with reduced mo-bility. This device, designed by Sebastian Tobler,himself tetraplegic, leverages physiological move-ments to a new dimension combining sport andtherapy.

2015 through a thin collaboration withhis friends. Initial observations revealedimprovements in the coordination,strength and health of people with dis-abilities who participated in this test.GBY was founded in 2016 and it onlytook 3 years to produce a first series of50 Go-Trykes. This device is intended forpeople with spinal cord injury, multiplesclerosis, stroke or with other motor dis-abilities. Note that this tricycle can befolded to take it in a car.

«TrikeStudy», collaborative networkThe Go-Tryke bridges sport and therapy.To understand the benefits of the move-ment it offers, GBY launched a project,the TrikeStudy, which brings togetherscientists from all around. A deviceequipped with sensors and allowing thearms and legs to be synchronized in dif-ferent ways has been developed by theUniversity of applied sciences in Burgdorf(HESB, Prof. Kenneth Hunt). It was de-livered at the end of 2019 to the Univer-sity of Lausanne, allowing two studies toemerge: one led by the teams of Dr.Jérôme Barral at UNIL and the team ofProf. Grégoire Courtine at NeuroRestore.In this collaborative project encouragingmultiple exchanges and merging differ-ent know-hows, the Swiss paraplegic re-search will launch a qualitative studywith 24 patients who will ride the Go-Tryke during 2021-2022.

The future: stimulating invalid muscles on the Go-TrykePeople with spinal cord injury loose fullor partial use of their lower limbs. Sebas-tian Tobler is part of the STIMO studyled by Prof. Jocelyne Bloch and Prof.Grégoire Courtine at NeuroRestore, astudy that aims to assess the efficacy of

1. The Go-Tryke give an unrivalled access tosport training and therapy to people withreduced mobility.

2. IPG, Implantable Pulse Generator (1); Electrode (2); AMU, Angle MeasurementUnit (3).

3. BiPedal, measuring device produced between 2018 and 2019 by the HESBBurgdorf. It is used as part of the«TrikeStudy».

spinal epidural electrical stimulation (EES)in combination with neurorehabilitationin people with spinal cord injury. An elec-trode array is implanted onto the spinalcord delivering electrical stimulationbursts targeting posterior roots of thespinal cord to contract leg muscles via animplantable pulse generator. This tech-nology enabled Sebastian to walk in thelaboratory with robotic body-weightsupport and aid from physiotherapists.In 2018, he suggested to the NeuroRe-store team to combine this new technol-ogy with the Go-Tryke. A sensor makesit possible to identify the position of thepedals, and thereby the position of theleg which is then used to control stimu-lation of the specific engaged muscles atthe correct timing. NeuroRestore scien-tists from EPFL and CHUV took up thechallenge with great success in 2018 andthe results have been published in Na-ture (Wagner et al., 2018). The Go-Tryke would thus make it possible topromote therapy in a leisure activity out-doors, a solution which is a guarantee ofsuccess both from a research and finan-cial point of view.

www.gby.swiss

«It's not for manto adapt to the machine, but quite the opposite!»Sebastian Tobler, CEO

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G o-Tryke & physiological move-mentThe Go-Tryke is a «tricycle» with

two linked cranksets: one for the handsand the other for the feet. When thehand crankset is operated, the foot crankrotates accordingly, thus respecting thenatural coordination movement of thebody when walking. Through this ap-plied direction of movement, the Go-Tryke is the only «tricycle» which enablesnatural coordination of arm and legmovements. This device adapts to hu-mans and not the other way round. Elec-tric assistance in the rear wheel equippedwith sensors supports the users’ effort,allowing them to reach places otherwiseinaccessible. This provides a feeling offreedom!

From concept to completionThe idea came from a paraplegic engi-neer, Sebastian Tobler, following amountain bike accident in 2013. After a9-months rehabilitation at the SwissParaplegic Center, he returned home andbegan an intense training program,reaching up to 37 hours a week in hiscellar on different devices. This is wherethe desire to combine therapy and out-door sport emerges. The objectives areclear: moving the legs and arms in aphysiological manner while making na-ture accessible through riding on pathsand trails. After multiple attempts to findsuch an opportunity on the market, Se-bastian designed the first prototype in

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49>> MEDICAL

High-end exclusivetools for dentistry

Created in 1994 by Olivier Schaeren, the companySmile Line is based since 2008 in Saint-Imier (Jurabernois). It is active in the development, manufactur-ing and marketing of high-end and innovative toolsand accessories for both dental laboratories and dentalclinics. Smile Line is present via importers and distrib-utors in more than 70 countries and its exports repre-sent 99% of the turnover.

D ental technology is a field of ac-tivity that is quite unknown tothe general public however this

is an amazing and very exciting sectorthat combines the use of advanced ma-terials and technologies. A dental pros-thesis must combine at the same timea high level of precision, mechanics &function, and ideally a high level of aes-thetics in order to integrate perfectly ina natural environment: a beautiful smileis a wonderful gift, every day!

It is the development of a very innova-tive product (a device allowing dentalporcelain powders to keep their mois-ture) that motivated the creation of thecompany more than 25 years ago. Atits launch the product immediately metan amazing success on the internationalmarkets. Shortly after the start of thecompany, Le Nouveau Quotidien, Swis-sair and Carlson Wagonlit Travel organ-ized the B.E.S.T. trophy (best exportstrategy trophy). The contest wasadressed to all the PME in the Frenchspeaking part of Switzerland. Smile Linewas very proud to win first prize aheadof dozens of participants.

Since then, Smile Line has been coop-erating with the best specialists in theworld for developing the adapted tools,for proposing new techniques thatallow the dental technician to workmore easily, faster and with better er-gonomics.

With time, Smile Line could profile itselfas the world leader in the segment ofhigh-end and exclusive tools and ac-cessories, setting at the same time thepace and a style unknown until then...The brand’s philosophy is vehiculed ob-viously by the quality of the productsthat can be considered the best ambas-sadors but also through high-end cata-logues and digital medias that are in atotal harmony with the product itself.

In 2008, Smile Line won a Red Dot De-sign Award with its line «Instrument bySmile Line» designed in-house. Thatwas a huge pride for who knows thatthese awards are aspired normally andbefore all by the professional designers.Later and since then, Smile Line hasstarted a partnership with Lorraine Calabrese, a very talentuous designerwith whom a few impressive successeswere achieved.

The year 2008 was also a major mile-stone for Smile Line, moving into itsown premises, built in the Zone Indus-trielle de la Clef in Saint-Imier. This wasprobably the necessary step for closingthe circle and offering a total cohe-rence, together with the innovative and

1. Smile Line designs exclusive instrumentsof the highest quality with a high emotional value that earned the companythe prestigious Red Dot Design Award.

2. Smile Line’s education center for the organization of hands-ons and work-shops.

«The future is notwhat is going tohappen to us butwhat we aregoing to do.»Olivier Schaeren, CEO and

founder. He identifies himself with Frenchphilosopher Henri Bergson’s words.

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exclusive products and the highly emo-tion charged brand image and salessupports.Last but not least, a few years later andbecause of the need of more spaceboth for working places and ware-house area, Smile Line extended thesurface of the premises, almost dou-bling it. That was the opportunity formaking a dream come true: the creationof a large, modern, high-tech educationcenter. Today, Smile Line’s educationcenter allows for the organization ofhands-ons and workshops with famousinternational lecturers and opinionleaders, but also serves for welcomingthe sales forces of the dealers, travel-ling to Switzerland for product trainingand education purposes.

While for years Smile Line has onlybeen focusing on developments for thetechnical side of the dentistry (dentallaboratories), a few years ago SmileLine could open the door of dental clinicsthanks to developments with the lead-ers of the world’s most famous com-munity of clinicians.

In a very competitive and fast movingmarket, Smile Line has met a constantgrowth thanks to a continuously increasing portofolio.

www.smileline.ch

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IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine>> MATERIALS

Installation of the 3D concrete printing robot

Mag 51

Nature has finely designed so many materials to serve thehuge diversity of forms and ways of Life. Still, engineers inWestern Switzerland go ahead with passion to invent inno-vative materials at the micro & nanoscales for applicationsthat reach into every part of society.

City of Geneva from the Mont Salève

Evolution of sapphire growth

© Gen

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risme / Gau

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Natural fibres – from race to space

Does it need to be carbon fibre?Satellite panels, super-yachts, Formula 1 cars – natu-ral fibres suddenly are a viable alternative for whatused to be home turf of carbon fibres. Thanks to arevolutionary Swiss technology, flax fibres can nowmatch and outperform carbon fibres. A true start-up story

The company started as a truegarage start-up. The founders,

PhDs from the École PolytechniqueFédérale de Lausanne, were looking forways to create lightweight yet highlyperforming freeride skis. Result:bCores™, the lightest wood core for skisand snowboards, consisting of balsawood reinforced with flax fibres.

Fascinated by the properties and poten-tial of flax fibres, the founders pro-ceeded to develop novel solutions forsustainable lightweighting. Technical flaxfibre fabrics – ampliTex™ – were quicklyadopted by the fast-moving sports in-dustry for surfboards, skis and snow-boards and even bike frames. Lookingbeyond the sports market quickly re-vealed the significant potential impact inlarger markets like the mobility sector.

A game-changing technologyA real step change occurred with the de-velopment of the award winning pow-erRibs™ technology. Inspired by the veinson the back of leaves, powerRibs™ cre-ate a 3D grid structure on one side of athin walled shell element; maximisingthe stiffness to weight ratio. Thanks topowerRibs™, natural fibres can matchthe performance of monolithic carbon fi-bres while adding significant advan-tages.

Vibration damping is increased by up to250% and safety aspects are vastly im-proved as the grid structure preventsshattering and has a blunt fracture be-haviour. Not least, Bcomp’s technologiesenable a 75% lower CO2 footprint cra-dle-to-gate, do not require productionconsumables and can be used for ther-

mal energy recovery at end of life, whilesaving up to 30% cost compared to apure carbon fibre construction.

Development platform for sus-tainable technologiesStriving for maximal impact, Bcomp tar-gets the mobility sector where weightreductions are notoriously important.Motorsports were a logical first step:with short time to market, the racingworld acts as a technology platform forOEMs where innovative solutions aredeveloped and tested at an extremelyhigh pace. Facing a global climate crisis,developing sustainable technologies hasbecome a key topic to justify the exis-tence of motorsports – enabling technol-ogy transfer to road cars and thus apositive impact.

Bcomp collaborates with leading players,most recently with McLaren F1, whojust developed the first F1 seat with nat-ural fibres and powerRibs™ – bringingflax fibres to the pinnacle of motor-sports.

Road cars, electric trucks, luxuryyachts and satellite panelsThe potential for sustainable light-weighting technologies is immense andthe versatility of ampliTex™ and power-Ribs™ allows them to be used in an end-less number of applications. Inautomotive interior panels, powerRibs™help to cut weight by up to 40% and re-duce plastic by up to 70%, thus enablingcars to reduce their eco-footprint and in-crease energy efficiency.

The Swedish electric performance carbrand Polestar (jointly owned by VolvoCars Group and Geely) launched the

1. Natural fibre reinforced satellite panel.

2. Flax is locally grown in Europe.

3. B-side of bodywork with ampliTex™ andpowerRibs™.

4. F1’s first natural fibre seat developed byMcLaren Racing and Bcomp.

>> MATERIALS

«Lightweightingplays a key rolein mobility. Wedeliver the tech-nologies to do itsustainably.»Julien Rion, CTO Bcomp Ltd.

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Polestar Precept in spring 2020,mounted with a full natural fibre interior.Electric trucks and innovative last miledelivery vehicles are being built with nat-ural fibre bodywork while ampliTex™

technical fabrics are simultaneously con-quering oceans in the form of hulls andstructural components of the next gen-eration of luxury yachts with marketleaders such as Baltic Yachts.

Pushing boundaries even further, Bcompdeveloped the world’s first natural fibrereinforced satellite panel together withthe European Space Agency (ESA) prov-ing that natural fibres really go from raceto space.

www.bcomp.ch

© Pictures courtesy of Bcomp and McLaren Racing.

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55>> MATERIALS

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1. Evolution of sapphire growth.

2. Verneuil process. Sapphire fusions up to 2000 °C, the sapphire is growing drop by drop.

Based in the canton of Jura, Timsaph SA has takenup the challenge of rethinking the manufacture ofsapphire raw material by developing its own ma-chines and processes. Currently, Timsaph is produc-ing and selling Swissmade sapphire for the watchindustry, as well as for mechanical and optical appli-cations.

A fter 25 years of activity in ma-chining and polishing sapphirewatch components, the com-

pany Sébal SA has gained recognised ex-pertise in this sector. Mindful to promotelocal skills and 100% Swissmade prod-ucts, Sébastien Sangsue, CEO of thecompany, wanted to take up the chal-lenge of manufacturing the sapphire rawmaterial. Indeed, the quantity of sap-phire material produced in Switzerland isminimal compared to the needs of theSwiss watch industry, which is mainlysupplied in Asia.

Timsaph’s DevelopmentTherefore, Timsaph SA was born in 2015.The goal? To optimize the Verneuil flamemelting process, more than one centuryold, and create synthetic sapphire withtoday's technologies.

This bold R&D project has led to designa prototype machine with cutting-edgetechnology allowing ultra-fine adjust-ments in gas diffusion and alumina pow-der distribution.

The process and the design of new spe-cific tools led to quickly create the firstsapphire part compliant with the watchindustry specifications.

Following the research phase, bigger in-dustrial melting machines were built andthe environment was adapted takinginto consideration the constraints interms of heat and safety required forsuch a type of production.

Timsaph's rapid growth allows today tosatisfy the biggest watch brands by de-livering high quality Swiss-made prod-ucts and securing their supplies.

With a spirit of permanent innovation,Timsaph is getting ready to revolutionisetoday's market by developing radicallyexclusive products.

Process and requirementsThe whole process requires a completemastery of a large number of internal pa-rameters related to the exclusive and so-phisticated machines, but also theinherent conditions of the environment.This mastery can be supported by scien-tific approaches but above all requiresgood experience for which no trainingcourse exists.

Customer demands in terms of internalquality exclude any crystallization, pollu-tion or cracking default of the material aswell as the most regular geometry pos-sible. This makes the process particularly

«From an ances-tral process re-viewed with hightechnology, weexpand the mar-ket by offering100% swissmadesapphire.»Damien Schaffter, site manager

Swissmade sapphires are forever Characteristics of sapphire

Sapphire is a monocrystalline structure madeof aluminium oxide (Al2O3), the hardest ma-terial in the world after diamond.

Due to its multiple properties of resistance,hardness and transparency, sapphire is suitablefor many applications in the watch industry,but also in the manufacturing of tools or theoptical industry.

Verneuil processThe production by Timsaph is using a tech-nique based on the industrial process called«Verneuil». This kind of process allows to pro-duce sapphire rods with a diameter of 22 mmto 45 mm and a length of approx. 120 mm.sapphire is growing drop by drop from aluminapowder melted by thermal energy using atorch fed with hydrogen and oxygen at a tem-perature above 2050 °C. The growth of thesapphire rod in insulated furnace takes severalhours.

After the production, a cooling time of manyhours must be observed and after that, theparts are removed from the furnaces. The in-ternal quality of the sapphire rods is inspectedwith a laser that highlights impurities andstructural defect of the material.

Once checked, the brittle sapphire rod mustundergo one more operation : the annealingprocess. The part is put in a furnace thatreaches over 1800 °C. The process lasts severaldays. After that, the sapphire achieves the re-quired properties, it is really strong and readyto be machined.

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demanding and requires a sapphiregrowth under optimal and adequateconditions.

Timsaph has developed all the associatedmeans of production and control, allow-ing industrial optimization. This makesadaptations and improvements to thequality level agile.

www.timsaph.ch

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Ceramic Injection Molding (CIM) for high-end applications

The Institute for Applied Plastics Research (iRAP) inFribourg disposes of the specific know-how andequipment in the field of Ceramic Injection Molding(CIM) to support industrial partners in the develop-ment of innovative products and solutions.

T he Institute for Applied PlasticsResearch (iRAP) is attached to theSchool of Engineering at Fribourg

(HEIA-FR), member of the University ofApplied Sciences and Arts of WesternSwitzerland (HES-SO). iRAP institutepursues the goal of developing innova-tive and economical products andprocesses in collaboration with industrialpartners. The institute offers core com-petencies in the fields of plastic productdevelopment, injection molding, microand nanostructures, compounding andhigh added value materials such as mag-netic or electrically conductive plasticcompounds. In addition, the institutedisposes of key competencies in the fieldof Ceramic Injection Molding (CIM).

Ceramic Injection Molding (CIM) is anet-shaping process which enables thelarge-scale production of complex-shaped components for diverse indus-trial applications. This technologycombines the advantages of the eco-nomical plastics injection moldingprocess and the interesting physicalproperties of ceramics. The injectedfeedstock is a compound of a polymermatrix and ceramic powders such as alu-mina (Al2O3), zirconia (ZrO2) or siliconnitride (Si3N4). After injection molding,to take of the polymer matrix and den-sify the part, the product is placed inovens for the debinding process and sin-tering. The end product is composed ofpure ceramics and therefore offersunique properties in terms of mechanicalstiffness and wear resistance. This makesthe parts suitable for applications underextreme conditions like high tempera-tures, corrosive atmospheres, abrasiveconditions and high mechanical stresses.

Furthermore, the excellent biocompati-bility and the good resistance to sterili-zation makes ceramic parts interestingfor applications in the medical sector.

As explained above, CIM is a complexmulti-stage process. For achieving highand stable component quality, allprocess steps must be fully mastered.

In recent years, iRAP has carried outmany projects in the field of Ceramic In-jection Molding. These projects focusedfor example on the production of com-plex internal geometries that are difficultto demould. Figures 1 and 3 show thedevelopment of innovative products bycombining CIM and overmolding tech-nology which allows for assembling twodifferent parts. Furthermore, we aimedat exploiting the achievable limits of mi-crostructure replications applying CIMtechnology, the increase of mechanicalproperties and density of injected ce-ramic parts and the impact of the differ-ent processing parameters on the partquality and process stability.

1. Ejection of the demonstrator part show-ing the feasibility for integrating a logoto a CIM part through overmolding.

2. Numerical simulation of the mold fillingduring the injection process of a ceramicfeedstock.

3. The four basic steps of the CIM process:feedstock preparation, injection molding(green part), debinding (brown part) andsintering (sintered part). In addition, thepart integrates a logo by overmolding.

4. Close-up showing the precision for inte-grating a logo to a CIM part throughovermolding.

>> MATERIALS

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Today, the machining of an injectionmold for industrial ceramic injectionmolding is very time-consuming and ex-pensive. During a specific industrial proj-ect, iRAP has evaluated possible ways toreduce both by rapid tooling. A solutionhas been developed in which prototypesof injected ceramic parts can be pro-duced within only 2 weeks with a highreduction of tooling costs.

Furthermore, in the context of industrialprojects, the iRAP has also built up spe-cific knowledge and expertise in numer-ical simulation (Figure 2) and hasacquired state-of-the-art CIM equip-ment. The iRAP institute is able to carryout the product or process developmentand accompany the industrialization ofthe product on the site of the industrialpartner. Finally, iRAP works currentlywith some industrial partners to developnew high-end applications, such as in-struments, tools and implants for theMedical sector.

http://irap.heia-fr.ch

«Continuous product and processinnovations is the key to face the future market challenges.»

Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Bruno Bürgisser, professor for Plastics Engineering at the HEIA-FR, member ofHES-SO, Director of the iRAP-Institute

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The construction industry is facingmajor challenges

Cost pressure, lack of productivity, resource efficiency and climate protection areissues the industry has to deal with. Concrete is the most widely used substanceon earth after water and this consumption produces a significant carbon foot-print. With the rising need in urbanization expansion for its infrastructure in eco-nomic and social services, the mechanical performance, durability andaffordability of concrete make it the most versatile and preferred material for theconstruction of infrastructures. To remedy all these challenges, the only solutionto tackle the growing demand is to find practical solution through digital tech-nologies and automation to build in a more efficient and sustainable way.

A nnoying delays and cost over-runs at construction sites are athing of the past. The Fribourg-

based start-up MOBBOT, which devel-ops and operates automated robotic 3Dconcrete printing platforms, shows thatthere is another way. Compared to thetraditional method, where concrete ismixed and cast on site, and a ready-to-use product is normally delivered withintwo to three days, MOBBOT technol-ogy allows the same element to be pro-duced within just one hour. Today thecompany focuses the application onutility products such as energy, telecom,water chambers and manholes. Otherbenefits for the customers are that thetechnology enables to produce water-tight elements and diminish the amountof transport of material on-site.

State-of-the-art 3D printingThe 3D printing technology usingsprayed concrete («sprinting») devel-oped and patented by MOBBOT, usesan industrial robot to construct three-di-mensional structures that comply withindustry standards and best of all, does

not require custom molds. The systemwas designed to manufacture largeparts, all in record time, with projectmodifications possible up to the lastminute. The use of sprayed concrete en-ables to avoid cost joints between con-crete layers and facilitates theintegration of passive reinforcement.The know-how of the start-up lies in amultivariable process automation, robotpath planning and the aerodynamic ofsprayed concrete. The innovation allowscustoms-made concrete elements of 2tons to be printed within 20 minuteswithout the use of formwork.Another important advantage of thismanufacturing process is its low carbonfootprint. In fact, it’s upto 30% lower than thatof on-site production.The technology makes itpossible to use conven-tional concrete that emitsup to 30 percent lessCO2 emissions per MPathan with standard meth-ods while using cast-in-place method. To sumup, this type of 3D con-crete printing has provento be particularly sustain-able and suitable for in-frastructure projects.

Shaping the futureWith a solid track-recordof direct sales, where

1. Detail of a curved retaining wall element.

2. Installation of the 3D concrete printingrobot at a commercial partner’s site, Matériaux Sabag in Delémont, Jura.

3. Schematic view of the Mobbot printhead.

>> MATERIALS

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MOBBOT has delivered concrete ele-ments for diverse infrastructure-relatedprojects, the start-up is now entering anew phase with a major collaborationwith Matériaux Sabag based in Delé-mont. This concrete manufacturer in theJura region becomes the first partner todeploy MOBBOT’s system in Switzer-land and together, the two joint forcesare commercializing 3D printed concreteelements. A look into the future showsthat digital fabrication using sprayedconcrete will be used in a wider fieldthan today.

www.themobbot.com

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«Our 3D printingsolutions bridgedigital modelswith real worldof construction.»Agnès Petit, Founder and CEO

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Endodontics is a discipline driven by the need to re-move residual debris, bacteria and biofilm invisibleto the naked eye. IrriFlex® penetrates the root canalsof the teeth effortlessly, at the cost of a roaring tech-nological achievement in the world of plastic injec-tion moulding.

The history of IrriFlex® is the resultof the passion of a handful of spe-cialists who have been able to look

beyond their current practice to reachbeyond the knowledge they have ac-quired and open up to revisit the fundamentals of their respective profes-sions. From European clinicians spe-cialising in root canal treatment, todevelopment engineers in companies inFrench-speaking Switzerland, via theuniversity circles of the Jura and Swissinnovation support organisations, it isthe spirit of initiative relentlessly fuelledby the «Innovation» division of the in-separable «Cemiplast SA, in Saint-Imier/BE – Produits Dentaires SA, inVevey/VD» duo that has succeeded inbringing together the clinical, technical,regulatory and financial players to cre-ate a «game-changer» in the world ofdentistry and more specifically modernendodontics. Endodontics is the treat-ment of infected tooth canals.

A hugely collective challengeConfronted with the smallness of theoperating site, the control of deconta-mination is sensitive in this discipline. Adevice capable of penetrating to thebottom of root canals is a necessity thathas found IrriFlex® on its path.

Eight years of development were re-quired for this revolutionary irrigationneedle to meet the criteria for use bydentists, while at the same time ensur-ing an industrial production capacityable to meet the demand. The world ofmedical devices - governed by increas-ingly stringent regulatory requirements,with the entry into force of the MedicalDevice Regulation (MDR) on May 26,2021 in particular - requires risk man-agement to be integrated from the veryfirst ideas toward any future product.Moving forward in the development ofsuch a product by surrounding oneselfwith specialists of all kinds is a challengethat owes its coherence to the overallproficiency generated by the commu-nication skills of the internal team incharge of the project. This adventurebringing together clinicians, engineer-ing academics, moldmakers, materialsspecialists, injectors, integrators, ultra-sound welding professionals, cleanroom designers, extraordinary bar turn-ers, electro-erosion giants in the worldof the infinitely small, has shown howmuch the human being is at the heartof entrepreneurial success. The respec-tive capability to listen and the enthu-siasm propagated by the constantinvestment of a group of motivated

1. IrriFlex® Flexible endodontic needle.

2. IrriFlex® Root canal irrigation.

«To welcome and to tell aretwo essential elements to convert an ideainto reality.»David Brendlen, Innovation Manager

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players capable of pushing back limitshave not only given rise to an excep-tional product, but also to outstandingtechnological know-how.

Intellectual property and patents world-wide being significant cost centers forSMEs in Switzerland, we are proud ofhaving set up a product-process combi-nation capable of being ahead of thestate of the art recognized by the dentalprofession, with a production tool in linewith the Swiss know-how, combiningprecision and innovation in the industrialfield of plastic injection moulding.

Information on the product: www.pd-irriflex.comInformation on the injection capabilitiesof thermoplastics: www.cemiplast.ch.

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Injecting an idea into reality

63DIGITAL SECTION

MagIV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine

M any products presented in thiscurrent issue of MicronarcMagazine could have found a

place in this section focused on «Digi-tal»...The arbitrary selection you willdiscover in the next pages offers anoverview of the expertise available inthe innovative and dynamic field ofswiss microtechnique related to the dig-ital world. Implementation of digital so-lutions and services is seen in manyaspects of the daily life of people in the21st century throughout the world; dataacquisition and processing, often sup-ported by AI, are the backbone of mostof the new products encountered today.Switzerland is currently writing the nextchapter of its technical industrial history.It is not surprising... after all, the 21st

century is the golden age for navigationof numerical data.

When navigation was dealing withseas, ships and a race for on-board de-termination of longitude, swiss ingen-ious pioneers were already active in thedevelopment of innovative portable in-struments that allowed to keep track oftime at sea, a key parameter to calcu-

and companies developing and produc-ing key components.

When our data navigate, we want toknow where they are and who has ac-cess to them. With its expertise in secu-rity related to its well-known traditionin banking, Switzerland has a role toplay. Transfer protocols, equipment andservices are developed and integratedinto products proposed to the market infields as diverse as manufacturingequipment, production control, smartsensors, data analysis, medical instru-mentation or... horology!

More generally, exchange and trade inthe digital world need regulation at theglobal level: base to many internationalorganizations, Switzerland offers, withits stability, neutrality and its cultural as-piration for compromise, a trustful en-vironment to express and discussdiverging interests in search of commonsolutions for a global digital world.

Let's make it together!

late the longitude. And incidentally,they were placing the ground stones foran industry that became the cliché of aswiss technical product… The miniatur-ized mechanical systems handcrafted inthe 18th century developed into precise,reliable and magnificent watch productsthat are associated throughout theworld with Switzerland, second only tothe Matterhorn...

Expertise develops with passing gener-ations and the race is no longer on ma-rine navigation. Today's world dealswith navigation of data, and as backthen, precise determination of time andposition is crucial. Challenges are nowbased on GPS and satellites: the 4Hztic-tac of a mechanical watch has beenreplaced by the 1015Hz beat of anatomic clock. And swiss microtechniqueis still onboard, with its research centers

Fabienne Marquis WeibleIngénieure EPFL, Dr. ès sciencesDirectrice de l'ASRH (Association Suisse pour la Recherche Horlogère)

© swiss-im

age.ch/R

obert B

oesch

Edge AI from Quality Control to Smart Sensors

Siemens-MindSphere transforms data into knowledge. And know-ledge into business success.

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A breakthrough in smart and micro-manufacturing

The Haute Ecole Arc Ingénierie sits in the heart ofSwitzerland’s most industrialised region. It leads ap-plied research projects and trains engineers destinedto perpetuate Swiss Made excellence. To stimulatethe Swiss microtechnology industry and position itat the forefront of the digital transition and the newproduction methods, HE-Arc Ingénierie set up theMicroLean Lab.

T he arrival of the «Micro5» in 2016kick-started a revolution in termsof microtechnology production

methods. Developed by engineers at theHaute Ecole Arc (HE-Arc), this techno-logical gem consumes ten times less en-ergy and takes up five times less floorarea than conventional 5-axes millingmachines.

With that micromachine now beingmanufactured and sold by several Swissbusinesses, HE-Arc Ingénierie is takingthings to the next level: the microfac-tory. The microfactory is not just a singlemilling machine, but the entire produc-tion system used by the microengineer-ing industry that will henceforth bedesigned to be exactly the right size forthe components and finished products itmanufactures.

By scaling the factory more efficiently,both the energy consumption and thefootprint will be lower. In addition, mi-crofactories will allow manufacturing totake place closer to the end user,thereby reducing the need for energy-intensive, global logistics with risky sup-ply chains.

A reconfigurable, connected, auto-nomous microfactoryTo achieve this, a wide range of minia-ture «technology bricks» need to be de-signed. Each will perform a specificoperation, such as milling, bar turning,polishing, laser cutting, measuring,cleaning, and even 3D printing.

A cyber-physical system will provide anagile, autonomous means of movingparts and tools from one machine to an-other, from the stock of raw materials tothe finished product. Each piece ofminiaturised milling, assembly, handlingand control equipment needs to be ableto communicate with the others, inother words it must use standardisedcommunication protocols that allowdata to be collected and used effectively.

With its «plug and play» technologybricks, the microfactory will be easy to

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«The purpose ofthis new indus-trial vision is toachieve the aimsof Industry 4.0,from personalis-ing products toreshoring pro-duction toolsthrough the useof digital tech-nology.»Philippe Grize,Head of the Haute EcoleArc Ingénierie

1. The microfactory that is being developed through the MicroLean Lab.

2. Micro5, the 5-axis machine developed bythe Haute Ecole Arc Ingénierie, is adaptedin order to fit into the microfactory, as oneof the specific functional units.

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1. reconfigure so that custom productscan be manufactured at a similar cost tomass-produced items. This will enablethe microtechnology industry to re-spond to the growing demand for per-sonalised products, whether they beluxury items or medical implants. Moregenerally, the industry will be able toswitch to production processes that suita demand-based economy.

Thanks to interconnected sensors andembedded artificial intelligence, the mi-crofactory will also be capable of per-ceiving what it is doing and adapting itswork in real time in order to get theproducts it makes right the first time.

Of course, there are no shortage oftechnological challenges involved. Andthe various industrial and academicpartners who have joined the Mi-croLean Lab’s community of interestwill require all of their know-how toovercome them. But they are capable ofliving up to the expectations of a soci-ety that is increasingly aware of the en-vironmental and socioeconomic impactof its actions.

www.microleanlab.ch www.he-arc.ch/ingenierie

>> DIGITAL - MICROFACTORY IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine

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Founded in 2018, enovating makes its clients' data«speak» thanks to unique tools for information cap-ture, analysis and exploration. The power and inter-pretation of sorted data lies in the connectionsbetween this information, turning it into intelligence.

W ith the globalization of mar-kets, the intensification ofcompetition and the rapid

evolution of technologies, the masteryof strategic information has becomevital for both large companies andSMEs that want to adopt a proactiveapproach to the rapid changes in theirenvironment.

Today, we are immersed in data, socialnetworks, music and video sharingsites, connected objects, and location-based services that continuously gener-ate gigantic amounts of data. Thechallenge for companies that have ac-cess to this megadata is to be able touse it efficiently while avoiding infor-mation overload.

With more than 25 years of experiencealtogether in the field of innovation,enovating has developed a platform forinformation acquisition, analysis andexploration, allowing it to process mil-

lions of data and thus answer its clients'strategic questions.

IA made to serve information Even though information is quite easilyaccessible, its real value for a companylies in a given context, namely when itcan be linked together. Yet, creatingthese links is a complex process that re-quires time and resources.

Thanks to the most recent technologiesin artificial intelligence, machine learn-ing and deep learning, this process hasbeen optimized and energized. Intelli-gent robots browse the web and collectdata on companies, products, people,scientific publications and patents. Al-gorithms automatically extract struc-tured information from visited pages. Alearning system sorts and categorizesthe retrieved information according topredefined criteria. Finally, neural net-works weave links between the se-lected information in order to establishpossible outcomes or deduce futuretrends.

These tools, which are essential for ac-quiring and processing millions ofpieces of data, enable the automationand acceleration of information analy-sis. They are an indispensable comple-ment to the expert, whose knowledgeof the field and interpretation of the

1. Illustration of the connections betweeninformation, turning it into intelligence.

2. Schematic representation of the processand platform developed by enovating,mixing AI and human capabilities.

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data remains an essential link in thesuccess of the process.

Unique process and enobox plat-formenovating's know-how has enabled thesimultaneous integration of every toolrequired to process very large amountsof data for many projects on a singleplatform called enobox.In order to make full use of the informa-tion and draw all its intelligence from it,a unique process in four iterative phaseshas been developed. Several connectorsallow the collection of all types of data- structured and unstructured - tocleanse and standardize them in orderto create a corpus of relevant sorted in-formation to provide personalized serv-ices to customers.

Identifying tomorrow's markets At the end of 2019, the CSEM and en-ovating launched a joint pilot projectaimed at identifying future opportunitiesfor the technologies developed by theCSEM. As part of this project, the weaksignal analysis process developed by en-ovating has been adapted to explorenew fields of application for selectedtechnologies, thus enabling the identifi-cation and prioritization of new poten-tial customers.

www.enovating.com

>> DIGITAL - DATA & SERVICES

Driving innovationthrough AI structured information

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«We absorb largedatasets to answer strategicquestions andpredict futuretrends.»Dr. Raphaël Imer, COO and co-founder

In contrast to cloud computing, whichinvolves indiscriminate data collection,edge processing of sensor data involvesembedding algorithms either locally oralongside the sensor, be it a camera or amicrophone, allowing for low latency forvery fast decision-making. These consid-erations are paramount for applicationsrequiring privacy or high speed such asprinting or for predictive maintenancewhere the speed of shut down and re-pair can be crucial to the bottom line.

Swiss SMEs today are starting on digital-ization using discrete systems where thereturn on investment is clear. Yet we areonly scratching the surface of the poten-tial of machine learning and digitalizationto transform business. Next are con-nected systems, so-called «hierarchicalcomputing», which connects these dis-crete systems, as well as self-learning

systems, which evolve withthe production. The futurewill be here sooner thanwe think, offering op-portunities to improveproductivity, sustain-ability and quality, aswell as offering newproducts and services.

www.csem.ch

niques. An example is data augmentation,where a small amount of data, throughoperations such as rotation, shifting andtransformation can be sufficient to trainthe algorithm. We specifically look at im-proving data algorithms for industrial sit-uations such as multi-illumination setups.

Capturing and labeling the data is citedas 80% of the cost of data projects.CSEM has been developing a completeend-to-end digital solution. Starting with«PUCK» a Plug, Use and Collect Kit,which allows infrared, sound and videodata to be recorded and «SpectroX»which captures multispectral reflection,we develop labeling tools which auto-matically label the features of interestwhether it be a malignant skin condition,a scratch, or the number of people in aroom, this significantly reduces the costof data projects.

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The advent of cheap and powerful computing is driv-ing the emergence of smart sensors able to makehigh-speed decisions on the fly, without sending datato the cloud. «Edge AI» can improve quality and pro-ductivity as well as creating new business models andservices.

C ontact and Trace has proved akey weapon to curb the spreadof COVID-19, showing how es-

sential digital technologies have become.Digitalization impacts our daily lives, in-fluencing what we watch, where we go,and how we communicate. While «BigData» approaches employed by the likesof Google and Amazon can seem dis-connected from the requirements ofSMEs, digitalization is also changing theway all businesses operate, from smartsensors to Industry 4.0, offering growthopportunities to companies who em-brace these new technologies.

CSEM has been bringing innovativetechnologies to SMEs for over 30 years.With roots in Western Switzerland,micro-nano technologies are in our DNA;research initially focused on the localwatch industry. Less well known isCSEM’s pioneering work in machinelearning and smart sensors (sensors withembedded intelligence). Indeed in 1995,we helped develop the world’s first opti-cal character pen reader. Today the wide-spread availability of cheap but powerfulcomputing and the quantity of digitaldata are fueling digitalization even forthe smallest businesses.

Fast forward to 2020, to defect detec-tion, a common problem faced by high-value low-volume manufacturing ofmicro-nano technologies. Defect detec-tion is a challenge due to the diversity ofdefects and the difficulty in detection,often requiring specialized lighting. In-deed, the debate as to what constitutesa defect can exist between human oper-ators; even the same operator can besubject to labeling variation dependingon the time of day. For a data-driventechnique there is the additional problemof a limited number of defective samplesto train the algorithm.

To tackle these challenges CSEM com-bines the latest data enhancing tech-

1. Witness: fully autonomous through PVrecharging, ultra-low power imager thatcan be used like a sticker.

2. Watch Parts: Defects illuminated from dif-ferent directions along with ground-truthbinary mask representing the defects.

3. MoneyPen: The World’s first optical charac-ter pen reader based on an embeddedConvolution Neural Network.

4. SpectroX: simple customizable handheldmultispectral kit, application here of skincondition classification.

5. PUCK: Plug, Use and Collect Kit with ther-mal imaging, audio, and video sensors running algorithm for inference while alsocollecting data.

>> DIGITAL - EDGE AI & SMART SENSORS

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«The future issmall, smart andsustainable.»Andrea Dunbar, Head ofEmbedded Vision Systems

Edge AI from quality control to smart sensors

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71>> DIGITAL - INDUSTRY 4.0

What makes useful data analysis so challenging isthat algorithms for pattern recognition and machinelearning must be properly combined and coordi-nated – turning big data into smart data.

T echnical and organisational mas-tery of production, maintenanceand service processes is attracting

increased attention. The use of smartdata not only means that processes arebeing optimised, but opportunities arebeing created to build entirely newbusiness models: mechanical engineersare able to read service data from ma-chines and identify the causes of dis-ruptions more efficiently during servicecalls. Plant operators are able to com-pare power consumption and faults inmachines at an early stage, avoidingdowntime and enabling OEMs to giverecommendations for optimising pro-duction. Good maintenance, for exam-ple, allows the warranty period to beextended or OEMs to offer completelynew business models such as «smartmaintenance» for systems and ma-chines. These are precisely the develop-ments that MindSphere supports.

Ecosystem for developers andmakersMindSphere digitally depicts the com-plete lifecycle of production plants andtheir components in data structures andfunctionality. In this way, MindSphereenables industrial companies to contin-ually improve system performance by

collecting and analysing large volumesof production data. At its core, thishigh-performance IoT operating sys-tem comprises data hosting, dataanalysis, high connectivity, tools for de-velopers, configurable applications andservices for optimal performance of allequipment with maximum availability.Artificial intelligence optimises opera-tions, thus creating transparency andcompetitiveness.

In the process, MindSphere supportsusers with applications for analysingand using data in order to obtain newinsights, identify trends and meettoday’s challenges.For example, there is an app that auto-matically calculates all relevant OEE fig-ures, making it easy to identifyoptimisation potential. What’s more, allMindSphere users can also develop,use and sell their own Web services,and implement them as the basis fortheir own digital services – such as inthe area of predictive maintenance andservicing, energy data managementand resource optimisation. OEMs andapp developers have the ability to ac-cess the platform via open interfacesand to use it for their own services andanalyses, for example to analyse the

1. Digital technologies provide industry with countless production and businessopportunities.

2. MindSphere supports users with applications for analysing data and bringing new insights.

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machine data of a global machine fleetin order to monitor it for service pur-poses and to minimise downtimes.

Transforming data into businesssuccessSeamlessly optimised and digitally in-tegrated processes accelerate thelaunch of innovative products andsmart services. Moreover, digital tech-nology gives rise to countless new pro-duction processes and businessopportunities in the manufacturing in-dustry.

The more industry becomes digitisedand networked, the more interfaces arecreated and the more data can flow.With MindSphere, Siemens is offeringthe leading industrial IoT-as-a-servicesolution with high connectivity, an in-tegrated security concept and access tothe App Store. The use of MindSphereopens up an entirely new way of help-ing to improve asset management andenergy efficiency through data analysisand simulation and providing compa-nies with comprehensive support onthe path to digital change.

www.siemens.mindsphere.io/en

Siemens-MindSphere transforms data intoknowledge. And know-ledge into businesssuccess.

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«Digitalizationgenerates a fastand easy ROI,plus you obtain a high level ofefficiency andfascinating find-ings even fromyour first set ofdata.»François Guillet, Consultant Industry Services Siemens Switzerland

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LINKiX, Smart Production on thewatchmaker's work-bench

A modern company in perpetual search for innova-tion, VOH SA is a true solutions factory that has beenoffering state-of-the-art equipment and original so-lutions for the watchmaking and microtechnology in-dustries since 1995.

R esponding to market expecta-tions, VOH has developed an in-novative smart production

concept adapted to the world of watchmanufacturing. Human operators stayat the center, their intelligence andadaptability are essential in watchmak-ing, with technology supporting them.Our smart production system assists andinforms the operator, traces the variousoperations and events, allows cross-functional monitoring of production andoverall control of operations.

The new LINKiX ecosystem integratesthe new generation of VOH equipmentsuch as PAViX, designed for watchhands fitting. It enables production at alltimes according to controlled criteria andparameters, independently of the oper-ator. Total traceability makes productiondrifts detectable, analyzable and quan-tifiable. Productivity and quality areguaranteed through a system meetingthe usual production volumes and flexi-bility requirements of manufacturingcompanies.

Optimizing the operator’s benchThe workspace of a watchmaker is de-fined by his workbench, imposing er-gonomic, compact and autonomousdevices. Our wireless products savesspace, improves ergonomics and orderon the workstation while avoiding con-nection errors. VOH devices consumelow, offer limited choices of direct inter-action, allow communication, program-

ming and adapted data transfer. ThisSmart Production ecosystem relies oncutting-edge technologies that guaran-tee high security and flawless robustnessin data transmission. It is adapted to fu-ture products, as well as to existing prod-ucts by upgrading, without modifyingoperation processes, just adding thefunctions required for smart production.

Humans are now used to interactionswith their environment through smart-phone applications. We have designedour system with the same principles:LINKiX is the operating system and eachtype of product has its own dedicatedapplication. LINKiX is able to operate asa stand-alone system without a clientnetwork link or can be integrated intothe client network through a singlebridge.

Hardware elements include the wirelesscommunication module and a terminalwith an ARM minicomputer, a touchscreen and a communication module al-lowing the LINKiX system devices to bemanaged graphically through a wirelessmesh network and bridged to the cus-tomer’s network or a NAS.

Each device integrated into the LINKiXnetwork sends its measurement / trace-ability data and status in real time. It canbe configured and programmed individ-ually or in groups from the terminalthrough dedicated applications. To in-crease the number of connected devices,

1. To increase the number of connected devices, reduce bandwidth and consump-tion, data is pre-processed on the devicesand only relevant data is exchanged overthe mesh network.

2. A workshop equipped with 50 PAViX gallows, each performing a needle expo-sure every 15 seconds, will generate atransmission every 0.3 seconds lasting afew milliseconds.

3. Universal and intelligent VOH hand-set-ting bracket, LINKiX complient. Functionalcontrol of the hand-setting operationthrough force measurement and heightcontrol.

>> DIGITAL - INDUSTRY 4.0

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data exchange over the mesh network isoptimized to reduce bandwidth andconsumption, data is pre-processed onthe devices and only relevant data is ex-changed.

Global workshop monitoring is the goalof LINKiX: the network is divided by de-vice type, manageable as a whole, as anisland or individually. Also differentequipments can be grouped and moni-tored.

Any machine with embedded intelli-gence must have scalable firmware. TheLINKiX terminal allows updates throughthe mesh network, scheduled outsidebusiness hours.

www.voh.ch

«The future ofmechatronics lies in data processing.»Bastien Paratte,Head of R&D

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Human-Robot co-working made easy, fluid and safe

In Delémont, Jura, the HUMARD Automation SAteam, passionate about innovation and new tech-nologies, has been developing for 25 years specificproduction solutions for their customers within ananticipation of the industrial world of tomorrow.

A factory for the future is con-nected, flexible and efficient. Itwill revolutionize industrial

processes, based on new technologiesand innovation. HUMARD AutomationSA is therefore constantly reinventingitself to continually meet the demandsof its customers but also to offer theminnovative solutions.

In addition to the standard productlines of HUMARD Automation SA(loading robots, hydraulic presses, pal-letization, assembly line), a new pro-duct line has been developed within thecompany: Industry 4.0.This industry of the future is a revolu-tion in the industrial environment. It of-fers work autonomy and alsocontributes to the prevention of MSDs(musculoskeletal disorders).

From this product line, the Kart'HU-MARD is a combination between theAMR MiR robot and custom-madeadaptations created to meet industrialdemand. The Kart'HUMARD moveseasily and safely. It avoids obstacles andpeople by bypassing them. In additionthe robot movements do not require

any special programming knowledge.Directly from a smartphone, a tablet ora computer, it is possible to control itand to assign it various missions thanksto an internet connection. Capable ofovercoming all kinds of obstacles suchas doors or elevators, Kart'HUMARDcan be used in almost any situationwhere employees have to push carts ormake deliveries. Transporting up to1'000 kg of material, such a solutionprotects the physical health of the em-ployees and thus allow to evolve to-wards Industry 4.0.

The YuMi collaborative robot Designed to work hand in hand withhumans, the agile, fast and preciseYuMI robot can assist them, in partic-ular by limiting the drudgery of repet-itive manual tasks. It integrates safetyfunctions (sensors, cameras, etc.) sothat no fairing was necessary andHuman-Robot interactions are there-fore fluidised. YuMi detects the slight-est change in its environment and stopin a few milliseconds. Its ergonomicarms have 7 axes each that allow it toreproduce human movements. Inte-grated as a base on its 'HUMARD' sta-tion, this versatile robot can beadapted to various applications withinthe company. In addition to the safetyaspect, it is also a guarantee of quality,capable of working 24 hours a day.This «new generation» robot can evenbe paired with a Kart'HUMARD. Itthen becomes totally independent inits movements and therefore more re-active, entering the era of the industryof the future.

1. This new generation robot can be combined with a Kart'HUMARD system. It then becomes totally independent andautonomous in its movements.

2. An Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV) mobile collaborative robot you can equipand automate for your transport operations.

3. Tailored to measure, the Processline inte-grates different operations or processesin order to meet production requirementsin every respect.

>> DIGITAL - COBOTICS

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«We must alwaysbe at the cuttingedge of technol-ogy in order tooffer the best solutions to ourcustomers.»Jimmy Ackermann, Head ofBusiness Development

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These technological improvements arealso used for the turnkey machinesthat HUMARD's designs in its dedi-cated office following the specific re-quests of customers. Developed in thetechnical office and as-sembled in theworkshops of HUMARD AutomationSA, special machines are therefore cre-ated hand in hand with the customeraccording to his needs.On the lookout for the slightest newproducts and mechanical, electrical orsoftware innovations, the engineersfrom the «Delémontaine» companywon’t miss any new part that could beintegrated into their special machines.

www.humard.com

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AI powered digital stethoscope:new ways for personalised medicine

>> DIGITAL - MEDICAL

The digitalisation of health systems is an ongoingrevolution and artificial intelligence (AI) will play akey role. AI-powered medical devices and telemedi-cine will improve the quality of connected carepathways, particularly in times of confinement suchas the COVID-19 situation.

F rom stethoscope to digitalstethoscopeIn the history of medicine, the

stethoscope heralded a breakthrough indiagnostic innovation for heart and res-piratory diseases. Invented by RenéThéophile Laennec in Paris in 1816, itwas designed to improve the diagnosisof respiratory diseases in children, whichwas the leading cause of mortality in the19th century. Since 2008, the stetho-scope has evolved further in line withdigitalisation and there are now numer-ous models and a wide range of formsand connectivity. The digital stethoscope(DS) detects, amplifies, and records heartand lung sounds, and can be used intelemedicine for remote diagnosis by aphysician.

Pneumoscope projectThe Pneumoscope project is a furtherstep in this evolution. Born out of the ini-tiative of a team of paediatricians atHUG/UNIGE working in close collabora-tion with engineers in acoustics, signalprocessing and embedded electronics atHEPIA, and in machine learning at EPFL,this innovative research project aims tocreate new DS-embedded autonomousartificial intelligence algorithms, whichcan analyse lung sounds in real-time, actas a medical ear to identify respiratorydisease patterns, and provide useful in-formation to the user through a user-friendly application displayed oninteractive support. Yet, innovationmerely in terms of the AI-DS was notenough for our team to make a signifi-cant impact at the patient's bedside.Biosensor integration of a reflectionoximeter and a thermometer is a majorasset of the Pneumoscope project. Thecontribution of these clinical parametersmakes it possible to refine the accuracyof the diagnosis to automatically identify

the most severe forms that require spe-cific care in hospital.

Changing the paradigmIn this time of confinement or scarcity ofphysicians in many countries, many pa-tients are away from their doctors andalone with their disease and anxiety. Ourobjective is to bring this technology di-rectly to patients, as well as to thoseworking on the frontline of healthcareservices such as pharmacists, nurses,midwives and community health work-ers in low and middle-income countries.This new AI-DS will empower the userand improve the quality of connectedcare pathways by generating alerts, di-agnostic assistance and even therapeuticchoices.

Data-driven technologyThe essence and originality of this projectis also the creation of an auscultatorydatabase of respiratory diseases in chil-dren and adults. This valuable clinical re-search database will evolve to become asecure, anonymised patient data registry.Such a registry will be the most appropri-ate database for improving diagnosis ac-curacy at the point-of-care. We are

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1. Digital stethoscope prototype (MinimumViable Product).

2. David Rivollet, Machine Learning Engineer,HUGAlain Gervaix, Professor, M.D., Chairman,Department of Woman, Child and Adoles-cent, Head of the Pediatric Reception andEmergency Division, HUG Mohamed-Rida Benissa, Pediatrician spe-cialized in pediatric pneumology, biomedi-cal engineer, Institute of Global Health,UNIGE.Alexandre Perez, Systems Engineer, HUG.

3. Procedure for recording and analysinglung sounds.

«Adding AI to auscultationprovides safer patient diagno-sis.»Prof. Alain Gervaix

currently collaborating with 10 centers in8 countries around the world, and morethan 8,000 records have been secured.

Applications and operatorsIn light of this patient-centred researchapproach, which aims to improve preci-sion when diagnosing respiratory dis-eases, and when considered as part of agenuine strategy to optimise healthcarecosts, the Pneumoscope project couldthus see the use of the stethoscopebeing extended and it being welcomedin every household in Switzerland andabroad. Our stethoscope would becomean indispensable medical device in thehome, on a par with the blood pressuremonitor or thermometer. While it took along time for the stethoscope to becomeestablished in the medical community inits early stages, the current expertise innew assistive diagnostic technologies willlikely facilitate the rapid spread of the DSamong health care professionals and theCOVID-19 pandemic will undoubtedlyaccelerate this process.A start-up company to promote our AI-DS will be established soon.

www.unige.chwww.hug.ch

AI: Artificial IntelligenceDS: Digital StethoscopeEPFL: Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneHEPIA: Haute Ecole du Paysage, d’Ingénierie et d’Architecture deGenèveHUG: Hôpitaux Universitaires de GenèveUNIGE: Université de Genève

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«The future ofhome care isabout predictiveand preventivemedicine.»Guillaume DuPasquier, Co-founder

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A ccording to the Federal StatisticalOffice (FSO), Switzerland cur-rently has more than 1.5 million

inhabitants over the age of 65, whichrepresents 18% of its population. Thisshare should increase to nearly 21% in2025, more than 24% in 2035 and ex-ceed 26% in 2045. By then, accordingto the scenario of the FSO, the numberof seniors will have almost doubled 1.

This growth of senior citizen’s number isdue to improved living conditions, med-ical development and social progress thatlead to a worldwide increase in life ex-pectancy. This unprecedented demo-graphic change is a real challenge forsociety and the Swiss healthcare system,which must now face the price of thissuccess: the increase in chronic patholo-gies affecting the elderly, the need of newretirement homes and the resulting costs.DOMO, a company from the École Poly-technique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL),designed an innovative system that usesmachine learning to send personalizedalarms in case of health deterioration oran emergency at home.

A system that promotes preven-tive medicineThe only solution with chronic patholo-gies is a 24h/24 health monitoring,

which is normally very expensive andtime consuming. DOMO has developeda system that easily detects a health de-terioration by simply putting a bed sen-sor under the mattress. When the sensordetects a physical change (tachycardia,sleep apnea) it automatically sends analert to the family or caregivers so thatthey can act preventively.

The entry into a retirement home: a moment to delayIn addition to chronic pathologies andcosts increase, retirement homes willsurely not be able to meet the growingdemand. The objective of DOMO is toallow the elderly to stay independent athome as long as possible with a systemthat detects falls or unusual behavior andsends an alarm to the family or theemergency call center. This system isvery useful for people suffering from de-mentia or Alzheimer because the net-work of wireless sensors (door,movement and bed sensors) detect if theperson falls, goes outside during thenight or doesn’t move during the entireday. A mobile app is also provided forrelatives and caregivers that informsthem about the person’s health, interactswith the caregivers and sets up person-

1. Plan of an apartment protected by our security and health system.

2. The mobile app that informs about the person health, interacts with caregiversand sets up personalized alarms.

3. A system that improves preventive medicine.

alized alarms according to the person'slifestyle.

A system based on machine learningDuring the first two weeks, DOMO'stechnology records the lifestyle of themonitored person and establishes a be-havior baseline. Then, if there is achange of behavior from the baseline,emergency or preventive alerts areshared with 24/7 call centers or homecare organisations. The technology hasbeen built with more than 200’000 ofdays analysed and uses unsupervisedand supervised techniques. The clinicalstudies, conducted in collaboration withCHUV, the Inselspital of Bern and Nurs-ing School of La Source in Lausanne,have been published in renown scientificnewspapers such as Nature Scientific Re-port or Frontiers.

www.domo-safety.com[1] Federal Statistical Office. (2018). Active ageing. FSO News.Swiss Confederation.

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Telemedicine: an alternative to retirement homes

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The world’s population is ageing and the proportion of elderly living in nursing homes will increase dramatically, leading to increasing public spending. In order to limit these costs, DOMO offers an innovative system that allows people to stay at home safely.

81>> DIGITAL - ECOSYSTEMS CLEANTEACH

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Water as a source of new technologiesand business

The water industry is perceived as a technologicallyold-fashioned field with systems from the past cen-tury. Let’s be honest, this is true. However, things areevolving rapidly. Microsensors, nanotechnologies, digitalisation on top of the global warming are chang-ing the paradigm and the speed of the transition. S witzerland is the Saudi Arabia of

water. Many of its glaciers createrivers and bring water across Eu-

rope. Therefore, water has been per-ceived as plentiful and guaranteed. Itsprice is undervalued, sometimes free ofcharge and more than occasionally,wasted. However, from a time of abun-dance, we are moving towards scarcity.From a low-value commodity, it is be-coming a limiting resource if we con-tinue to not care of it. With pollution, itsquality is degrading. Irrigation becomesa challenge for farmers – even inSwitzerland. Forecasts for 2030 and be-yond are not very optimistic.

A transformation is taking place, partic-ularly under the leadership of the Euro-pean Green Deal, Water Europe, andthe need for the public utility companiesto adapt to the situation.

From Mega to MicroFrom large and heavy sensors, we see atrend to miniaturise them to decreasetheir energy consumption and, aboveall, to offer more affordable devices.These changes allow the water utilitycompanies to improve their daily busi-ness and to make better decisions.Smart watering systems are helpingthem to adapt their business modelsand increase water efficiency. If today,customers are paying a yearlong flat feefor their water consumption, we canimagine that the prices could fluctuatebased on the season or the accessibilityof water. This system could be a gamechanger in diminishing waste and overconsumption.

The LoRa sensors can help by monito-ring the quality of water sources re-motely, measure the amount ofwaterflow used for irrigation or assistfarmers in providing the exact amountof water for their crops.

We look outside of the water in-dustryTo innovate, non-water companies area good place to start. As an example,drones are being used for remote sen-sing, accurate measurement or evenmonitoring sources and small lakes.Since the autonomy of UAVs is relatedto the weight they carry, miniaturisationof these components is essential. On-board technologies must also be im-proved to enable autonomous flightsand avoid obstacles and accidents.

Citizen science New technology could open the doors ofthe households. In this field, the potentialfor growth is very large, particularly withmini sensors that allow the inhabitants tobe informed about their consumption, inparticular, in the bathroom or the use ofhot water. But there could also be infor-mation about the quality of the water, or

1. Water, the gold of tomorrow.

2. Intelligent irrigation LoRa device, for accurate farming decisions by Farm21.tech - Orbiwise.com

3. Drinking local water in the huts of the Swiss Alpine Club.

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even its treatment with nanotechnolo-gies in situ or during outdoor activities.

Join the ecosystemIn this paradigm shift, the Swiss innova-tion and the Micronarc’s members, suchas start-ups, academics and SMEs couldbring answers. How to mitigate wastewhen irrigating fields? How to measurethe water quality in remote sources?How to treat water in small villages orat home? How to serve local water inthe huts of the Swiss Alpine Club?

For all of these reasons, several citiesconcerned with the water resource andthe Canton of Valais joined efforts tocreate the innovation hub BlueArk, theoutdoor laboratory for smart water.

This ecosystem helps SMEs, academics,entrepreneurs and start-ups to launchnew ideas, to test at 1 to 1 scale newtechnologies, business models or ser-vices. The goal is to speed up the digi-talisation of water and the technologiesthat can be used in Switzerland, in theAlps and all over the world.

www.BlueArk.ch

«In Switzerland,water is a sourceof innovations.»Laurent Horvath, Smart Water InnovationManager

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The new T-Touch Connect Solar by Tissot is a con-nected watch with an array of modern features and asolar-power-charged battery. Swiss Made, this finetimepiece is interactive and built to last, with a con-temporary design and complete protection of users’personal data.

T his new watch is the latest gener-ation in a long line of tactile time-pieces. It’s water resistant to 100

meters and made of durable materials,meaning it’s protected against obsoles-cence – especially the planned obsoles-cence of many consumer electronics.

This new timepiece has all the basic fea-tures of the T-Touch Expert Solar, includ-ing a countdown timer, othertimekeeping functions, alarms, weatherinformation, an altimeter and an activitytracker. Users can also get notificationsabout calls, messages, apps and updatesthrough an interactive function betweensmartphones and the watch’s operatingsystem, called SwALPS (for Swiss Au-tonomous Low Power System) – anultra-low-power OS that was developedentirely in Switzerland. And like the en-tire T-Touch range, this newest additionis controlled using its hallmark feature: atactile sapphire crystal.

Data securityOne key advantage of the T-Touch Con-nect Solar is that it is fully designed andmanufactured in Switzerland. This pro-vides a guarantee not just of the time-piece’s craftsmanship and quality, butalso of the security of the data it collects.The data cannot be accessed by anysuppliers through the watch’s compo-nents or operating system, and neitherthe watch nor its app transmits data tothird parties.

Low-power components and asolar dial To give the watch as long a battery lifeas possible, all of its components are de-signed to require little energy. The ultra-low-power SwALPS operating system

was developed by CSEM in associationwith Swatch Group, and the photo-voltaic cell used in its dial was created byCSEM in Neuchatel.

Thanks to these innovations, the T-Touch Connect Solar can run almost in-definitely when it’s not connected andseveral months when it is, depending onhow it’s used and how much sunlight it’sexposed to.

Finally, the T-Touch Connect Solar is uni-versal, as it’s compatible with the iOS,Android and Harmony operating sys-tems – making it the first smartwatchcompatible with Huawei devices. Addi-tional features will be added in futureupdates. When the watch is not con-nected to the smartphone app, users canstill enjoy all the features of the T-TouchSolar Expert – but updated.

>> DIGITAL - WATCHMAKING CLEANTECH

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T-Touch with a solar dial and custom operating system

Features• Swiss made• SwALPS low-power operating system• Titanium case, black PVD and pinkgold coating

• 47 mm diameter and 15.3 mm thick• Engraved pushbuttons• Electronic crown• Ceramic bezel• Luminescent wind rose markings• Scratch-resistant, tactile sapphire crytal• Water resistant to 100 m (10 atm)• Quartz movement, solar-charged bat-tery

• Dial with photovoltaic cells• Low-energy, memory-in-pixel (MIP)digital screen.

www.tissotwatches.ch

1. The Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar, directdescendant of the T-Touch collection andthe first multifunction tactile watch, isnow: connected, hardwearing, privacy-protecting, interactive, autonomous andcontemporary.

2. CSEM clean rooms where the photo-voltaic dials are manufactured.

3. Data cannot be accessed by any suppliersthrough the watch’s components or oper-ating system, and neither the watch norits app transmits data to third parties.

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Julien Bailat, Section Head, Thin FilmDevices, CSEMJulien Bailat and his team developed the solardial for the T-Touch Connect Solar and the as-sociated manufacturing process. His engineersdrew on CSEM’s expertise in thin film deposi-tion and microfabrication to create a photo-voltaic cell with superior performance inlow-light conditions. Their cell’s sophisticateddesign meets the high standards of the Swisswatchmaking industry: luxurious style coupledwith immaculate precision.

Edo Franzi, Section Head, Firmware &Security for Connected Devices, CSEM The proprietary operating system and real-time kernel used on the T-Touch Connect Solar– developed entirely in Switzerland – providemaximum data security with minimal energyuse at all times. This was made possible thanksto CSEM’s over 20 years of experience at thecutting edge of microprocessing and low-power systems.

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Swiss watchmakingreimagined

In 2019, the community initiative CODE41 took ona somewhat crazy challenge: to develop and produceinside its community a watch with an exceptionalmechanical manufacture movement. When pre-orders were launched, the X41 met with marked suc-cess. The watch's design and materials have evolvedover the course of several editions.

M ore than just a brand,CODE41 is above all a com-munity movement consisting

of more than 400’000 members whotake part in the development of me-chanical watches. Created in 2016,CODE41 is an advocate for trans-parency, particularly in the origin andcost of the components of its watches.Members are therefore aware of all pro-duction-related costs, and can acquire awatch with unbeatable value formoney.

X41: an exceptional movement CODE41 took on the challenge of de-veloping a watch without compromise.That's why founder Claudio D'Amorecalled on one of the best designers inSwitzerland. Courfaivre (JU)-basedTimeless makes all of the componentsused in its movements in-house (exceptfor the balance wheel). In fact, it's notuncommon to find manufacture move-ments fitted with parts from mass-pro-duced movements. Thanks to theexpertise of this Swiss workshop, theX41 boasts a Fine Watchmaking move-ment fitted with a peripheral oscillatingweight. Resting on 31 ball bearings, itdoes nothing to obstruct either the dis-play or the magic of its skeletal design.

One of the X41s is made fromaeronautic carbon fibre Extremely resistant, carbon fibre is oneof those technical materials that goesperfectly with the magic of mechanicalwatchmaking. For its fourth edition,CODE41 has rubbed shoulders with theaeronautics and aerospace industry tocreate the X41 AeroCarbon. Made forus on demand in France, the carbonfibre blocks are made up of over 300layers, each positioned at 90° to theprevious, and compacted under 10 barsof pressure in an autoclave oven. Thisprocess guarantees an exceptional com-posite that's 2.5 times more resistant tobending than steel. In addition, its highdensity means that the AeroCarbon iswatertight without the need to add a ti-tanium ring, as is the case with the lessdense and more porous carbon fibrenormally used in watchmaking.

CODE41's very own distributionmodel CODE41 is not a traditional watchmak-ing brand. By creating a new distribu-tion model and digitizing its actions, theyoung Swiss brand has been able to im-pose itself on a market in the midst ofcrisis. Consumer expectations have alsoevolved significantly. By taking more in-terest in the origin and production con-ditions of the products that interestthem, the consumer becomes an impor-tant actor in the marketing chain. AndCODE41 understands this better thananyone else, with a community of over400’000 members and more than16’000 customers!

www.code41.comwww.label-tto.org

1. The «AeroCarbon», one of the X41s, is made from aeronautic carbon fibre.

2. The X41 sports is a Fine Watchmakingmovement.

3. The X41 is fitted with a peripheraloscillating weight.

>> DIGITAL – WATCHMAKING CROWDFUNDING

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«Don't just settlefor owning. Playyour part.»Claudio D’Amore, founder

IV - 2021 Micronarc Magazine>> WATCHMAKING & SUB-CONTRACTING

Aesthetical watch engraving

Audemars PiguetMillenary Frosted Gold Aventurine Dial

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The Brienzer Rothorn steam-powered cogwheel train in the Bernese Oberland. View of Lake Brienz.

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As the industrial revolution was spreading, Western Switzer-land got inspired by timekeeping. The area has still the mostaccomplished and prestigious watchmaking industry in theworld, while its brilliant technical skills have matured intomicro, and now nanotechnologies, to meet the highest demands.

1. Aesthetical watch engraving.

2. LIGA technique.

3. Chemical machining.

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High precisionengraving, etching and more

Multietch SA in Saignelégier, canton of Jura, is a com-pany specialized for over 30 years in the engravingand precision chemical etching by photolithography.Using sophisticated processes, Multietch SA puts itsknow-how to the service of watchmaking, medical,optical, food industries and aerospace.

F ounded in 1987 by Jean-PhilippeFrésard and Antonio Mendez,Multietch SA was taken over in

2011 by a young and dynamic leader-ship composed of David Mazzoni andEmile Eichenberger.About thirty employees are divided intofive departments that are chemical en-graving, chemical machining, electro-forming, optical encoders and LIGA. In 2020, Multietch built a new buildingwith more than 1500 m2 of operatingspace. Ultra-modern premises enable usto guarantee quality and technical ex-pertise.

«Elegance in the technique» is the com-pany's motto since because Multietchworks as well in watch engraving wherecriteria are most the aesthetical side, asfor the medical industry which requirestraceability and precision on manufac-tured components.Thereby, our manufacturing techniquewith its advantages can produce aes-thetical parts with elegance.

Reactivity, quality and services, are thekey words of Multietch.We want to remain at the cutting edge

of innovation and new technologies.Our company focuses its activities onfive different lines of business.

- Chemical machining: Although thisprocess has been proven for more thanhalf a century, it is still unknown tomany people. Chemical machining ismainly used for the creation of filters,springs, electronic contacts as well asparticularly thin products with bars orforms with complex geometries. Furthermore, this technique allows usto machine almost all metals withoutaltering their initial physical properties.

- Electroforming: an alliance of chemicalmanufacturing and electroplating, thistechnique consists in structuring apiece by depositing pure nickel withprecision. Such thoroughness allowsthe realization of prototypes as well asseries of flat pieces with complexshapes, most of the time delicate, hardand thin.

- Optical encoders: chrome glass etch-ing is mainly used for the productionof encoders discs. These are intendedfor motor piloting and for monitoringpositioning of machine axis.

- Etching chemical, laser and mechani-cal: whether the etching is technical ordecorative, Multietch SA enhances thewatch components with elegance. Thiskind of etching also helps to fightcounterfeiting.

- LIGA: the new kid of Multietch! LIGAis a process used to manufacture 3Dnickel microstructures. Its use can be

>> SUB-CONTRACTING

«Elegance in the technique.This is our motto.»David Mazzoni and Emile Eichenberger, Directors

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very extensive, such as for the manu-facture of timepieces, micro-mechan-ics, microelectronics and many otherareas. It’s possible to reach a precisionof 1 micron using this technique.

We want the environment to remain acentral focus of our policy. Thanks to ourultra-modern plant we recycle half of thewater we consume every day and reuseit in production. Our latest generationbuilding limits the environmental impact.In addition, we recycle more than 80%of our waste.

www.multietch.ch

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A family history of more than 70 years, Décovi SA isspecialized in screw machining and high-precisionmachining. The company from the Swiss Jura suc-cessfully diversifies its activities while remaining themain reference for oscillating weights for the majorwatch brands. F ounded in 1947 in Vicques, in the

Swiss Jura, by Denis Chèvre, Dé-covi specialised at the time in

screw machining. Nearly three quartersof a century later, Décovi now has a fac-tory larger than 4,800 m² and employsaround one hundred people.

In 2009, Décovi joined the AcrotecGroup, a federation made up of around20 companies and 18 production siteslocated in Switzerland, France and theUnited States. This federation allows forreal technological, human and innova-tive synergies between these differentcompanies thanks to the group's R&Ddepartment.

Décovi machines components of all lev-els of complexity using precision screwmachining, CNC turning and CNCmilling processes using a variety of ma-terials and dimensions. Today, Décovihas a fine reputation among the largestwatch brands in the field of oscillatingweights.

Décovi also distinguishes itself in thehigh-precision market by its ability toprovide finished parts that are as closeas possible to the requirements and sat-

isfaction of its customers, thanks tohigh-performance processes that com-ply with high-quality standards.

This quality, traceability and durabilityhas been legitimized by the ISO certifi-cation 9001 (quality management systems) since 1996, ISO 14001 (en-vironmental management systems)since 2006 and ISO 13485 (medical de-vices) since 2009. These are further as-sets in a market where customers arebecoming more and more demanding interms of traceability and concern for theenvironment. The same is true for theISO 13485 certification, which allowsDecovi to position itself clearly regardingthe regulatory standards for the produc-tion of medical devices. Throughout its history, Décovi has ex-panded its production range in multiplefields. However, watchmaking remainsthe dominant sector of the companythanks to the significant production ofoscillating masses. As the true heart ofthe automatic caliber, the oscillatingweight actively participates in the magicof the autonomous and individual en-ergy of each watch.

«The most famous brands in the luxurywatch industry trust us with the produc-tion, engraving and decoration of theseoscillating weights,» explains ClaudeChèvre, CEO of Décovi. «We produceabout one million pieces per year, andwe supply more than two hundredmodels of weights to about one hun-dred watch manufacturers.»

The oscillating weight is one of the mostprominent components of the move-ment, especially with the trend of opencase backs. Further this way, Décovi has

>> SUB-CONTRACTING

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The oscillatingweight, magic of the autonomousenergy

a know-how in adding decoration (colimaçonnage, côtes de Genève,strapping, satin-finishing, surface treat-ment, sparing and pad printing), laserengraving, colouring, as well as supply-ing and assembling the ball bearing onthe weights.

Décovi's screw machining departmentsupplies parts with a diameter between4 mm and 65 mm in different materials(stainless steel, titanium, brass, alu-minium, plastic, etc.).

Décovi thus offers highly diversifiedproducts and manufactures parts also inthe fields of Medtech, connector tech-nology, electronics, aeronautics, mecha-tronics, defense, micromotors orindustry in general. With its unique ex-pertise in the field of very high precisionmachining and its ability to adapt itsproduction to the most demanding reg-ulatory standards, Décovi is clearly aim-ing for strong growth in the medicalfield and a permanent improvement ofits productivity in order to satisfy its loyalcustomers and attract new prospects.

www.decovi.ch

1. Examples of oscillating weights for an automatic watch.

2. Examples of screw machining parts for adiverse range of industries.

3. Example of medical component: housingfor hand prosthesis.

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«Every day is anew challenge forDécovi becauseour values require us to bemore and moreprecise and effi-cient on an eversmaller and morecomplex scale.» Claude Chèvre, CEO

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As successive crises unfolded, watchmaking and watchmakers had to constantlyadapt and reinvent themselves. One path led their know-how into new fields:micro- and nanotechnologies in particular are eminent heirs to the watchmakingtradition of precision and reliability. Yann Zufferey is CEO of YZ Production Hor-logère SA, based in Valais on the fringes of traditional watchmaking Switzerland.He provides us «live» with an interesting summary of this sharing stage in thehistory of watchmaking. A watchmaking workshop, opera-

tors at their workbench handlingtraditional tools, others working

around machines. We could be in the«Arc jurassien», maybe second half ofthe 20th century, were not some high-tech digital equipment. And also, beyondthe windows, we do not see the softgreen relief of the Jura, but vines in au-tumn gold against a backdrop of snow-covered alps. We are in Sierre, canton ofValais, some two hours away from theJura where the Swiss and French watch-making industry flourished over the lasttwo centuries.

Yann Zufferey welcomes us in the prem-ises of YZ Production Horlogère SA,which he manages. «My great-uncle,René Zufferey, initiated the company in1974 when the Société Anonyme desfabricants suisses d'Horlogerie (SAH) en-trusted him with its newly created me-chanical movement assembly branch inSierre. He then took over the entity in1986 under the name of ProductionHorlogère and focused on the assemblyof luxury watches, complete casing, as-sembling of bracelets, final checks andpackaging». Certified in precision me-chanics in 1991 at ETA Swatch Group inFontainemelon, near Neuchâtel, Yann

Zufferey became the director of Produc-tion Horlogère in 1996, aged 24, with hisgreat-uncle accompanying him. «Ourcurrent premises - a full floor of an ad-ministrative building - were invested in2000».

Production Horlogère is now approach-ing its 50th anniversary, with an assemblycapacity of 3,000 - 4,000 watches perweek in the medium and high-endrange, while offering complete expertisein the industrial and technical improve-ment of products as well as consultingfor new projects. «In 2011, I added asecond company to our business,WatchYZ Sàrl, in a complementary reg-ister», explains Yann Zufferey. «On theone hand, the new company offers theassembly of watches for foreign brandsin accordance with the Swiss Made prin-ciple. And on the other hand, thanks toour skills and my network of partners, itoffers the creation of "Private Label" col-lections from A to Z, from design, con-struction and prototyping to laboratorytests, pre-series and series, plus logistics,packaging and distribution».

A turning pointAdding to all the turbulences surround-ing the Swiss franc, the Hong Kong crisis,the success of connected watches, theintroduction of the new Swiss Madelabel, etc., this great dynamic experi-enced in spring 2020, a two-month haltdue to COVID-19. «This new crisishas prompted me to imagine a businessmodel that can make our infrastructureand our specialized employees availableto other industrial sectors». Kind of a re-play, small version, of an importantepisode in the history of Swiss watch-making from the 1980s: one current

>> SUB-CONTRACTING

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Dealing with timeprepares to deal

with change

flagship of Swiss research in micro- andnanotechnology, the Swiss Centre forElectronics and Microtechnology - theCSEM - was born in Neuchâtel fromthree entities dedicated to watchmakingresearch in a merger planned by theSwiss government. The aim was to takethe shift toward new technologies by re-lying on the techniques and know-howdeveloped in the watchmaking industry.The preservation of knowledge, prac-tices and tools through their fruitful ap-plications to other sectors of the industrycreated in return a favourable context inwhich Swiss watchmaking reinventedand superbly re-launched itself.

In the same way, on his own scale, YannZufferey is now making his infrastruc-tures and team available for other ad-ventures. «Our premises ensure cleanli-ness, hygrometry and air-conditioning inline with watchmaking standards andthus they can accommodate industrialactivities in the fields of electronics, med-icine, pharmaceuticals, precision me-chanics, etc. without any trouble ». YannZufferey's target clientele are in particu-lar companies wishing to subcontractpart of their production and startupswishing to move from project study tothe industrialization of their product.«Here again, my network of partners isuseful, for research and development,prototyping, pre-production, industriali-sation and mass production.»

A dynamism full of passion, with deeproots, that we understand still betterknowing Yann Zufferey's motto: «Noth-ing is eternal, except change»...

www.production-horlogere.chwww.watchyz.ch

1. The technical know-how developed by thewatchmaking sector has proved to be ofvery wide applications.

2. Yann Zufferey wants his company to standat the heart of an ever more open networkof skills.

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«With the COVIDcrisis, I imagineda business modelopening ourwatchmaking infrastructureand employeesto other indus-trial sectors.» Yann Zufferey, CEO

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Jaeger-LeCoultre The Master Grande TraditionRépétition Minutes Perpétuelle stems from a cen-tury and a half of experience in complicationwatches accumulated by the Vallée de Joux watch-making house.

▲▲▲ BY ISABELLE CERBONESCHI - WATCHES THE GUIDE W hen you listen to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Master GrandeTradition Répétition Minutes

Perpétuelle striking the hours, quarter-hours and minutes, the first surprise ishow powerful the sound is. And the sec-ond is its delicacy. It combines strengthwith lightness. In order to develop thisgrande complication watch, Jaeger-LeCoultre drew on its 149 years of expe-rience in the field. Today, fewmanufactures can boast such a heritageand such expertise. To achieve this result,the manufacture’s research and develop-ment department perfected a system ofinnovative gongs with a clear and pow-erful sound, reminiscent of old strikingpocket watches. These gongs withsquare cross-sections, struck by articu-lated trebuchet hammers, resoundthroughout the case thanks to an ingen-ious system that enables them to occupythe entire space.

A mechanical amplifierThe gongs are not placed on top of eachother: they coil around the movementon one side, making a near-complete ro-tation before pivoting and switchingsides, where each gong then proceeds toarch upwards. The space in which thesound spreads is thus optimised, and theacoustics amplified by the proximity ofthe gongs to the case, like a soundbox.This timepiece couples two masterpiecesof construction and miniaturisation: aminute repeater and a perpetual calen-dar, another important complication thatdisplays the date, the day and the monthin accordance with the length of the var-ious months and leap years. Perpetualcalendars are usually handwound, butthe Master Grande Tradition RépétitionMinutes Perpétuelle is driven by the self-

winding 950 calibre. The rotor is con-cealed within the movement, allowingowners of this grande complication time-piece to fully admire the beauty of itscore and the high-quality finish adorningeach of its components. To safeguard thefunctioning of the movement, the man-ufacture has designed a security zonethat appears in an aperture close to theaxis of the hours and minutes hands be-tween 10 pm and 1 am. This valuable in-dication warns the owner not to adjusttheir watch during this period of time. Italso reminds them of just how preciousthe timepiece on their wrist is.

The Reverso’s new fineryThere are few watches that have en-joyed such longevity. The Reverso ap-peared in the 1930s, and its originsprings from one of the best-known an-ecdotes in watchmaking. During a polomatch in India, a British Army officer ap-proached Swiss businessman César deTrey holding a broken watch. He set hima challenge: to invent a watch that wasable to withstand the brutality of a polomatch. The businessman took the officerat his word and contacted the only Swiss

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The masteryof chiming watches

manufacture capable of achieving sucha feat. In 1931, the Reverso was born.Its singularity, functionality and timelessArt Deco design have enabled it to en-dure throughout the decades. In 2019,the Jaeger-LeCoultre manufacture pre-sented three new interpretations of thishorological icon: a burgundycolouredReverso Tribute Small Seconds, a Re-verso One Duetto, the famous women’smodel set with diamonds on both dialfaces, and a Reverso Tribute Duoface,which offers two time zones, one oneach dial face. The limited edition Re-verso Tribute Duoface Fagliano Limitedin rose gold is worn with a cordovanleather strap, hand-stitched by CasaFagliano, the world’s most distinguishedmaker of polo boots. An elegant nod tothe Reverso’s origins. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

1. Innovative system composed of two gongswelded together, curving around themovement in the same direction.

2. Master Grande Tradition Répétition Minutes Perpétuelle in white gold withblue guilloché enamel dial, limited to 30 pieces.

3. Reverso Tribute Duoface Fagliano Limitedin rose gold with blue front dial and silvered grey back dial featuring Clou deParis guilloché motif.

4. The ‘Care Program’: a digital platform forcustomers and an international eight-yearguarantee.

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Longines The brand from Saint-Imier has always ap-plied two enduring concepts to its production: preci-sion and elegance. Since 1832, these two watchwordshave become the symbols of Longines’ success.

▲▲▲ BY CHRISTOPHE ROULET - WATCHES THE GUIDE

T here is no trifling with history atLongines. And for good reason,too: with 187 years of existence,

the house commands respect, especiallyas it is now one of today’s leading Swisswatch brands. Longines has cultivatedthis attachment to its heritage since itsinception. It was founded in Saint-Imierin 1832 as a simple ‘watchmaking es-tablishment’, and quickly realised theneed to make an inventory of its pro-duction. Today this is an essential con-cern, but back then, this was no meanfeat. True to its visionary spirit, the firmhas systematically recorded all itswatches since 1867, first in its ‘établis-sage’ ledgers, then in microfiches, andfinally on computers. Since 2012, it hasbeen using the LEA (Longines ElectronicArchives), a unique database that col-lates all archived material about eachwatch, to provide information to dozensof customers on a daily basis. Given theincalculable number of Longineswatches scattered around the worldtoday, it is easy to grasp how monumen-tal a task this is.

A play on contrastsFaithful to its heritage yet looking to thefuture, Longines is omnipresent in thesporting world. The brand is officialtimekeeper for an array of competitionsin equestrian sports, gymnastics, archeryand downhill skiing, not to mention theCommonwealth Games. But it is also amaster in cultivating contrasts. Itsroadmap, for instance, presents a di-chotomy between existential eleganceand an almost military-like strategy.Longines is also the contrast betweendynamic, high-tech sports equipment

and age-old mechanical watchmaking.So it is hardly surprising to find similardiversity in the brand’s collections,where sport and classicism go hand-in-hand with femininity and tradition. Inthis last category, Longines has somehidden gems that «have accompaniedexploration missions to unknown partsof the globe, withstood extremeweather conditions, participated in theopening of new airways and the settingof new aviation records, and navigatedon raging seas».

On vintage wingsThese models that have marked the his-tory of watchmaking have now beenupdated for the Heritage collection. Wethus discover the Lindbergh Hour Anglewatch, developed by Longines in collab-oration with the aviator Charles A. Lind-bergh, who successfully completed thefirst non-stop solo flight across the At-lantic from New York to Paris in 33hours and 30 minutes in 1927. «Con-firming its essential contribution to airnavigation at the time, the Lindberghwatch helped set a large number of avi-ation records,» states the house. In thesame vein, the Longines Weems Sec-ond-Setting Watch has become an es-sential accessory for pilots and sailors. Itis based on an invention by US Navy of-ficer Captain Weems that made it pos-sible to synchronise a watch to thenearest second without disrupting themechanism, using a time signal broad-cast by radio. For military purposes,Longines also developed the LonginesAvigation Watch Type A-7 1935 for theAmericans in 1935, followed by time-pieces for the British Royal Air Force in

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All about traditionthe 1940s that inspired the present-dayLongines Heritage Military. Diving withthe 1960s Legend Diver, sports per-formance with the 1954 Conquest, andemerging elegance with the 1957 Flag-ship all still nourish the themes of thiscollection, whose retro accents keep theLongines winged hourglass flying high.

www.longines.com

1. The Longines Avigation Watch Type A-71935 in steel with white lacquered dialand brown alligator-leather strap.

2. Flagship Heritage – 60 th Anniversary1957-2017 in steel with silvered dial andbrown alligator-leather strap.

3. The Longines Legend Diver Watch in steelwith black lacquered dial and metal Milanese mesh bracelet.

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The power of seduction

Although Patek Philippe is a leading name in«grande complication» watches, it is equallyrenowned for its ‘petite complication’ timepieces,notably its calendar watches and women’s range.

▲▲▲ BY CHRISTOPHE ROULET - WATCHES THE GUIDE

V ery often, Patek Philippe’s trulyexceptional models are focusedon grandes complications, such

as the Grandmaster Chime Reference6300, which has two dials, no fewerthan 20 complications (including fivechiming ones) and 1,366 parts. And thiswasn’t even a oneoff! Presented in 2014to celebrate the manufacture’s 175th an-niversary, it was incorporated into thecurrent collections two years later. But inthe early 1990s, Patek Philippe alsobegan to concentrate on what it dubbed‘useful’ complications, such as annualcalendars, universal time and secondtime zones. In parallel, it also launchedthe Twenty~4®, its first women’s watchin diamond-set steel, in the same period.Patek Philippe thus also became abenchmark for useful complications, no-tably with highly popular models offer-ing simple, annual and perpetualcalendars and a weekly calendar.

Pioneer of calendarsThe advantages of an annual calendarare obvious. Requiring a simple correc-tion once a year at the end of February,it is therefore less complex than a per-petual calendar and consequently moreaffordable, while still leaving room fororiginal dial decorations. Yet thepatented movement equipping Refer-ence 5035, which is readily consideredto be the first true annual calendar,made Patek Philippe a recognised pio-neer in the discipline. That was back in1996, and since then this complicationhas become a trusty constant in thehouse’s catalogue, available in more

than 20 different versions. One of theseincludes Reference 5235, which was re-leased in 2011 and combined PatekPhilippe’s patented annual calendarmechanism with a regulator type displaythat dissociated the hours, minutes andseconds hands in a highly unusual way,all the while offering day, date andmonth calendars in separate apertures.The model returns this year in rose goldwith a two-tone graphite and ebony-black dial. While this watch – «a tributeto the precision clocks that were longused to display the exact time in watch-making workshops and astronomicalobservatories» – offers perfectly mas-tered retro charm, the same is also trueof another new timepiece: the CalatravaWeekly Calendar Reference 5212A in

steel, which introduces a new calendarfunction (the week number) in additionto the day and date displays. Inspired bya one-of-a-kind piece made in 1955, theaesthetics of this creation have a vintagefeel that is highly popular today. As evi-dence of this, the house has created aspecific typography based on handwrit-ing, with letters and numerals that areall different and unique, in a nod to thenotes written in a diary.

A feminine anniversaryWithout the Twenty~4®, Patek Philippewould certainly not be where it is today.The house’s iconic women’s watch isnow celebrating it 20th anniversary, pro-viding the perfect opportunity for themanufacture to give it a new lease of lifewith the Twenty~4 Automatic, whichabandons rectangles and quartz for thecurves of a 36 mm case in diamond-setgold or steel, and the reliability of a self-winding 324 S C calibre. It took no lessthan five years of development to pre-pare this new Twenty~4®, notably toadapt the calibre to a smaller case andto hone its appearance right down tothe tiniest of details. As the house’s boss,Thierry Stern, summed up when it waspresented in Milan: «It had to be per-fect. It had to be a Patek Philippe!».

www.patek.com

1. Calatrava Weekly Calendar Reference5212A-001 in steel with silvered opalinedial and specially designed typographybased on hand-written numerals and letters.

2. Annual Calendar Regulator Reference5235/50R in rose gold, with two-tone dialin graphite and ebony black.

3. Twenty~4 Automatic Reference7300/1200A-001 in steel set with 160 diamonds, with blue sunburst dialand steel bracelet.

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«The Internet is a very goodtool to be educated, but it'snot the right tool to sell aPatek Philippe.» Thierry Stern, CEO of Patek Philippe

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The radical magician of modern watchmaking lovescontemporary art, making for some unusual partner-ships. From famous institutions to renowned artists,Richard Mille stakes his own unique claim to someuncharted creative territory.

▲▲▲ BY OLIVIER MÜLLER - WATCHES THE GUIDE

S unday 30th June, Chantilly, Northof Paris. A castle dating back to1358, an immense park and gar-

dens designed by Le Nôtre, filled withimpressive hats and families wearingtheir Sunday best. With each step, theypass a vintage Bugatti, a forgotten FacelVega or a McLaren prototype. Whatcould be mistaken as a background of aDali is habitual for Richard Mille. TheRichard Mille Arts & Élégance car com-petition is (largely) his own creation. Itwas founded by his friend Patrick Peter(from Peter Auto, a leader in classic carraces) after a discussion together. Butthe event offered a unique twist, placingart and mechanics on an equal footing.

In the beginning, a soupçon of PicassoNew observers might have been sur-prised: Richard Mille, the high priest of21st century watchmaking, champion ofmechanical sports, apostle of the ultra-high-tech... converted to patron of thearts? The truth is more complex. Butnot, however, entirely unexpected.There were a few clues. The ÉditionsCercle d’Art publishing house was oneof them. Part of the Richard Mille group,it is the long-standing publisher of manymonographs on contemporary artists,including Picasso, who was an early sup-porter. Then there’s the brand’s severalpartnerships with artists from diversebackgrounds. One of these is CyrilKongo. A true work of art for the wrist,his RM 68-01 Tourbillon transposes hisworld and the language of street art tothe heart of a watch movement. His ex-traordinary work of art required nearly a

year of research simply to develop theairbrush and paint that was needed!

Transposing an artistic vocabulary ontothe infinitely small is a common denom-inator with the creations of anotherRichard Mille artist, the actress MichelleYeoh, who was also the brand’s first fe-male partner. Her RM 051 illustrates thelegend of the phoenix on the wrist.Adorned with diamonds, it snakesaround the movement, binding the bar-rel, power reserve indicator and tourbil-lon together in an eternal cycle. Poetryand fascination emanate from this workof art, whose extreme complexity tran-scends feminine elegance.

Sitting down with the greatsEven this boldness was not enough tosatisfy Richard Mille. After some othervery targeted partnerships (PharrellWilliams, the actress Margot Robbie andthe choreographer Benjamin Millepied),the watchmaker sat down with some ofthe world’s greatest artistic institutions.But don’t expect to find Richard Mille atthe Louvre, it’s much too historic! Thisman keeps his gaze looking far ahead tothe future. First it was Frieze Mastersand Frieze London, then New York andLos Angeles. Frieze is the most impor-tant global platform for modern andcontemporary art for connoisseurs, col-lectors and the general public. RichardMille immediately found his place there,for each of his watches is, in its ownway, a work of art, design, sculpture andarchitecture. Each «Richard Mille» stim-ulates the perception of collectors, offer-ing a new interpretation of the art of

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Richard Mille has art on his mind

watchmaking in exactly the same waythat a work of modern art questions tra-ditional art, unhesitatingly questioninggenres and conventions. More recently,Richard Mille laid a further claim to artis-tic territory through a partnership withthe Palais de Tokyo, Europe’s largestcentre for contemporary art, situated inthe heart of Paris. With a three-yearcommitment, Richard Mille will be in di-rect contact with the 640,000 visitorsthat come to this international institu-tion each year which, like the watch-maker, knows how to blur the linesbetween exhibitions, meetings, film pro-jections, concerts, performances andbook shop, all within a spectacularbuilding. Innovating and upsetting con-ventions in an unparalleled modern set-ting: this could almost be the definitionof a Richard Mille watch.

www.richardmille.com

1. «A work of art for the wrist», the RM 68-01 Tourbillon Cyril Kongo was created incollaboration with the French street artist.

2. A partner of several major art events, including Frieze, Richard Mille combinesart with watchmaking.

3. Cyril Kongo has brought his graphic worldto the heart of the movement, using a specially developed airbrush to spray onthe colours drop by drop.

4. Actress Michelle Yeoh has contributed tothe development of several Richard Millewatches for women.

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Rolex in full sail

Rolex presents the new Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42. As comfortable atsea as it is on land, this nautical timepiece encapsulates the spirit of great seafar-ers, the functionality of a professional tool and the style of an elite sports watch.

▲▲▲ BY RACHÈLE MONGAZON - WATCHES THE GUIDE

S ince the 1950s, Rolex has beenpart of some of the greatest sea-faring adventures. At the time, it

developed its first links with prominentsailing clubs and set sail with yachtsmenwhose bravery and determination it sup-ported. It takes both courage and com-mon sense to confront the waves, aswell as faultless timekeeping with theuse of an accurate and robust timepiece.Adventurers from all horizons deliber-ately chose to wear a Rolex on theirwrist. One such navigator was Sir Fran-cis Chichester, who was the first to com-plete a solo round-the-world sailing tripin 1967. Talking about his Rolex, hemaintains: «While I was sailing aroundthe world aboard the Gipsy Moth IV, myRolex watch received several violent im-pacts without being damaged. I can’timagine a more robust watch». In thisspirit of uncompromising performance,the Yacht-Master range, released in1992, celebrates the nautical achieve-ments and passion that unite Rolex withthe world of sailing.

New waveA new member has joined the Yacht-Master crew. In addition to its unprece-dented 42 mm diameter, twoinnovations mark the arrival of the Oys-ter Perpetual Yacht-Master 42: its case iscrafted from 18-carat white gold – a firstfor the range – and its Oysterflex strap isequipped with the new Rolex Glidelockextension system. In all other respects,the new recruit proudly displays the hall-

marks of the collection. Its case withrounded contours is topped with a bidi-rectional rotating bezel with matt blackCerachrom insert. This high-tech,scratch- and corrosion-resistant materialdemonstrates Rolex’s ability to manufac-ture ceramics in intense, durable colours.The bezel’s raised graduations and nu-merals ensure precise readings, while itsnotched surround is easy to grip. Per-fectly waterproof, the Oyster case canwithstand depths of 100 metres due toits hermetically screwed-down case backand Triplock crown. The scratch-proofsapphire crystal, with Cyclops lens overthe date at 3 o’clock, protects a blacklacquered dial with Chromalight displaylegible in the dark, and large, luminoushands and hour-markers.

Crammed with technologyThe new Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Mas-ter 42 holds a high-precision 3235 cali-bre, developed and manufactured byRolex. This avant-garde self-windingmechanical movement is protected byseveral patents. Its assets? Greater pre-cision and autonomy (70 hours), betterresistance to impacts and magneticfields, and enhanced reliability and easeof use. To achieve this, it incorporates aChronergy escapement that is insensi-tive to magnetic fields and combinesoptimum energy efficiency with safeoperation. Its Parachrom balance springis 10 times more accurate than a tradi-tional balance spring in case of impact,and guarantees smooth operation. This

is also true for its oscillator mounted onParaflex shock absorbers.

Steeped in styleAs functional as it is elegant, the Yacht-Master 42 is fitted with an Oysterflexstrap that combines the sturdiness of ametal bracelet with the aesthetics andcomfort of a rubber strap. Its two endsare made up of flexible metal bladesthat are overmoulded with black elas-tomer. The Oysterlock safety clasp pre-vents it from opening unexpectedly,while the new integrated Rolex Glide-lock extension system allows the lengthof the strap to be adjusted without anytools. Lastly, like all Rolex watches, theYacht-Master 42 is delivered with thebrand’s own Superlative Chronometercertification to guarantee its high per-formance, as well as a five-year interna-tional warranty.

www.rolex.com

1. Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 in 18-carat white gold with matt black ceramic Cerachrom insert, black lacquered dial and Oysterflex strap.

2. The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Porto Cervo,organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smer-alda (YCCS) in partnership with Rolex.

3. The Oyster case is water-resistant to 100 metres and features a screwed-downTriplock crown protected by shoulders onthe case middle.

4. Oysterflex strap and Oysterlock safetyclasp patented by Rolex.

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RICHARD MILLERM 07-01 Ladies / CHF 216,000Tonneau-shaped carbon TPT® case, dimensions 45.66 x 31.40 x 11.85 mm, sapphirecrystal case back. Water-resistant to 50 metres. Skeletonised automatic mechanicalmovement, manufacture calibre CRMA2, grade 5 titanium mainplate and bridges,variable geometry rotor, variable inertia balance, fast rotating barrel. Power reserveof about 50 hours. Functions: hours, minutes. Carbon fibre flange, luminescent hour-markers. TPT® carbon and grade 5 titanium bracelet, 200 components, 29 grams.

ROGER DUBUISExcalibur Blacklight / CHF 99,000 / Limited edition of 88 timepieces18-carat white gold case, 42 mm diameter, bezel set with 102 diamonds (~1.1carats), sapphire crystal case back. Water-resistant to 50 metres. Skeletonised auto-matic mechanical movement with micro-rotor, calibre RD820SQ, 166 components,28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of 60 hours. Functions: hours, minutes. Flangewith rhodium-plated hour-markers, micro-sapphire tubes sensitive to UV light, 18-carat white gold hands. Navy blue alligator-leather strap, adjustable white gold fold-ing clasp.

PARMIGIANI FLEURIERToric Retrograde Perpetual Calendar / CHF 69,00018-carat rose gold case, 42.5 mm diameter, sapphire crystal case back. Water-resistant to 30 metres. Automatic mechanical movement, manufacture calibrePF333, 414 components, two seriesmounted barrels, 28,800 vibrations/hour. Powerreserve of 50 hours. Functions: hours, minutes, seconds, retrograde perpetual calen-dar, precision moon phase. Slate «Rice Grain» guilloché dial, blue aventurine moonphase, rose gold applied hour-markers and luminescent javelin hands.Hermès Havana-brown alligator-leather strap, rose gold folding clasp.

AUDEMARS PIGUETMillenary Frosted Gold Aventurine Dial / CHF 53,000Satin-brushed and hammered 18-carat white gold case, 39.5 mm diameter, crownset with a translucent sapphire cabochon, sapphire crystal case back. Water-resistantto 20 metres. Manually wound mechanical movement, manufacture calibre 5201,157 components. Power reserve of 49 hours. Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds.Off-centred dial, blue aventurine small seconds counter, rose gold applied hour-mark-ers and hands. 18-carat white gold bracelet, folding clasp. Comes with a second blackalligator-leather strap.

HUBLOTBig Bang Sang Bleu II King Gold / CHF 44,900 / Limited edition of 100 timepiecesKing Gold 18-carat rose gold case, 45 mm diameter, bezel with hexagonal decor, sixH-shaped titanium screws, sapphire crystal case back. Water-resistant to 100 metres.Automatic mechanical movement, manufacture calibre Unico HUB1240.MXM, 330components, 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of 72 hours. Functions: hours,minutes, flyback chronograph, date. Matt black dial, polished skeletonised hands.Black rubber strap designed by Sang Bleu, folding clasp in 18-carat King Gold.

HERMÈSArceau L'heure de la lune / CHF 26,00018-carat white gold case, 43 mm diameter, sapphire crystal case back. Water-resistantto 30 metres. Automatic mechanical movement, manufacture calibre H1837, 193components, 28,800 vibrations/hour, with exclusive «L'heure de la lune» module,117 components. Functions: hours, minutes, double moon phase (Northern andSouthern Hemispheres), date. Aventurine dial, white lacquered mobile counters,southern moon with Pegasus transfer, northern moon with a transfer of the moon'ssurface, blued hands. Abyss-blue matt alligator-leather strap, white gold folding clasp.

JAEGER-LECOULTREAtmos Transparente / CHF 9,950Glass case, dimensions 145 x 185 x 250 mm, rhodium-plated and satin-brushedbase. Manually wound mechanical movement, manufacture calibre 563, 217 com-ponents, one degree in temperature variation is enough to power the Atmos for twodays. Functions: hours, minutes. Transparent glass dial, transferred hour-markers andblack hands.

CARTIERSantos-Dumont / CHF 3,850Steel case, 43.4 mm wide, beaded crown adorned with a blue cabochon-shapedspinel. Water-resistant to 30 metres. High-autonomy quartz movement (~ six years).Functions: hours, minutes. Silvered satin-brushed sunray dial, Roman numerals,blued-steel sword-shaped hands. Navy blue alligator-leather strap.

LOUIS VUITTONTambour Monogram 34 mm / CHF 2,580Steel case, 34 mm diameter. Water-resistant to 100 metres. Quartz movement. Func-tions: hours, minutes, seconds. Grained dial with Monogram motif, hands with Super-LumiNova®, yellow central small seconds. Interchangeable Monogram fabric strap,Louis Vuitton patented system.

ORISOris Divers Sixty-Five / CHF 2,200Steel case, 40 mm diameter, bronze bezel with minute scale, screwed crown and caseback. Water-resistant to 100 metres. Automatic mechanical movement, calibre Oris733, SW 200-1 base, 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of 38 hours. Functions:hours, minutes, seconds, date, stop seconds. Blue dial, luminescent rose-gold-platedhour-markers and hands. Steel and bronze bracelet, folding clasp.

Source: Watches The Guide Source: Watches The Guide

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A mission atthe heart of micro and nanotechnologiesA unique hub of competence Micronarc covers a region with a highlydeveloped industrial culture that hasevolved into a centre of excellence inmicro and nanotechnologies. Solidly an-chored in a centuries-old tradition, thepassion for innovation and extreme pre-cision is reflected in a dense network ofeducational, research and business insti-tutions. This translates into optimumperformance in terms of symbiosis in re-search and applications, transfers oftechnology, and innovation cycles.

A communication platformMicronarc is a communication platformcreated by the governments of theseven cantons that constitute WesternSwitzerland (Berne, Fribourg, Vaud,Valais, Neuchâtel, Geneva and Jura). Itsmission is to contribute towards:

• developing and promoting a regionalscientific, technical and economic basein the micro and nanotechnology sec-tors, as well as related educationalstructures, R&D facilities, technologytransfers, inward investment and busi-ness structures;

• encouraging seamless interaction be-tween all participants;

• attracting other creative and innovativeforces, generating jobs and ensuring

future generations of a qualified work-force;

• acting as a source of reliable and ac-cessible information, serving as an in-strument for the dissemination andexchange of knowledge, both in theprofessional and public arenas.

To achieve these objectives, Micronarc:

• manages and operates the internetportal www.micronarc.ch;

• establishes a strong presence at the in-ternational level, notably through theorganisation of grouped stands at in-dustry trade shows;

• organizes professional and publicevents;

• provides information, networkingstructures, and business introductions.

Executive OfficeFSRM – Swiss Foundation For research in MicrotechnologyRuelle DuPeyrou 4, CP 2353CH-2001 Neuchâtel - SwitzerlandTel. +41 32 720 09 00 www.micronarc.ch

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The Micronarc Expert Committee wasset up in 2008. Its mission is to establishstrategy guidelines for the Micronarcplatform, to direct the platform, initiatenew activities, and serve as liaison be-tween the various participants.

The constituent members are:

Vincent Rivier, PresidentDirector of the Registre du Commerce

Dr Stefan HengsbergerProfessor, EIA Fribourg

Jacques JacotProfessor Emeritus EPFL

Reynold JaquetMember of the Berne Precision ClusterCommittee

Georges KotrotsiosVice President CSEM SA

Fabienne Marquis WeibleDirector of the Association Suisse pourla Recherche Horlogère

Guillaume von RotenInnovation project manager, CimArk

Alain Codourey Managing Director Asyril SA

Frédéric ChautemsPlant Manager MPS Watch

Max MontiResearch Director, Haute Ecole ARC

Martial Racinead personam

Philippe FischerDirector FSRM

Micronarc is managed by its ExecutiveSecretariat, the Swiss Foundation for Re-search in Microtechnology (FSRM) incollaboration with the GIM-CH / Swiss-mechanic.

ContactDanick BiondaSecretary General

Micronarc is an initiative of the Cantons of Bern, Fribourg, Vaud, Valais, Neuchâtel, Geneva and Jura.Supported by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) under the New Regional Policy (NPR).

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MagThe Micronarc team Micronarc Alpine Meeting

12th edition

Executive Office:FSRM – Swiss Foundation For research in MicrotechnologyRuelle DuPeyrou 4, CP 2353CH-2001 Neuchâtel - SwitzerlandTel. +41 32 720 09 00 Fax +41 32 720 09 90 www.micronarc.ch

Micronarc - The communication platformof a unique hub of competence

A Micronarc event organised with

4 - 5 October 2021Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland

See web site for the most up-to-date information, including confirmed speakers to date.

Following in the success of the first 11 editions, The Micronarc Alpine Meeting 2021 will continueits focus on equipment and innovative processes and technologies for manufacturing microprod-ucts. This 2-day conference intends to stimulate networking and discussions in the casual atmosphereof Villars, a charming village and ski resort located at 1250 meters of altitude. The event is a high-level,niche workshop which provides participants with an excellent overview of state-of-the-art manufac-turing technologies. More information at: www.mam2021.ch

EARLY PROGRAMSunday 3 October 202118:00 Registration openWelcome drink at the hotel (dinner afterwards on your own)

Monday 4 October 202109:00-09:30 Welcome Session

Danick Bionda, Secretary General, MicronarcProf. Dr Volker Saile, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

09:30-10:15 Invited Keynote on the Future of Micro-manufacturing IProf. Dr. Roland Zengerle, IMTEK (Germany)

10:45-12:00 Micro-manufacturing Applications I – WatchmakingSylvain Dolla, CEO, Tissot SA (Switzerland)Pierre-François Louvigné, Sales and Marketing Director, Silmach (Switzerland)More speakers to be announced

13:30-15:00 Micro-manufacturing Applications II - Medtech Erika Györvary, Technology Coordinator, CSEM, (Switzerland)Dr. Bernd Vogel, Endosmart (Germany)Dr. Alexios Paul Tzannis, Business Development Manager Life Science and Diagnostics, IMT Masken und Teilungen AG (Switzerland)Dr. Andreas Hogg, CEO, COAT-X and Dr. Julia Hoeng, PMI Science (Switzerland)

15:30-17:15 SENSORSBenedetto Vigna, President, Analog, MEMS & Sensors Group, ST Microelectronics (Italy/Switzerland)Dr. Nicole Ruiter, Ultrasound Computer Tomography, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany)Dr. Markus Ulm, Vice President Engineering (BST/NE), Bosch Sensortec GmbH (Germany)Prof. Tamim Asfour, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology / KIT (Germany)

19:00 Conference Dinner - Meet in hotel lobby at 19:00

Tuesday 5 October 202109:00-09:45 Invited Keynote on the Future of Micro-manufacturing II

Prof. Barbara Rothen-Rutishauser, Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg (Switzerland)

10:30-12:15 Novel ManufacturingProf. Yves Bellouard, GALATEA LAB, EPFL (Switzerland)Prof. Dr.-Ing Andrea Iris Schäfer, Director - Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany)Frédéric Loizeau, Business & Technology Development Manager, CSEMProf. Dr. Jürgen Brandner, Karlsruhe Nano Micro Facility KNMF, KIT (Germany)Dr. Thomas Bertolini, Managing Director, Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG (Germany)

14:00-14:45 Invited Keynote on the Future of Micro-manufacturing IIISpeaker to be confirmed

14:45-15:00 Final Remarks 15:00 Conference adjourns - Farewell reception in hotel lobby With the support of

The Microproducts Annual Meeting

innovaud.ch

technologies that make the difference

Advanced manufacturing

Smartwatches

The future of energy

The internet of things

Personalized health

CSEM SA ∙ Rue Jaquet-Droz 1 2002 Neuchâtel ∙ Suisse

Alpnach ∙ Landquart ∙ Muttenz ∙ Neuchâtel ∙ Zurich

Tél. +41 32 720 [email protected] ∙ www.csem.ch

Magazine M&N-Micronarc_4eEd - ARI-SO

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