About AI-MATTERS
AI-Matters is a European network of testing and experimentation facilities, aiming at increasing the resilience and the flexibility of the European manufacturingsector through the deployment of the latest developments in AI, robotics and intelligent, autonomous systems for flexible production. The project is co-funded by the European Commission and sources at national/regional level.
Get to know the nodes: the Netherlands
In every newsletter, we put the spotlight on one of AI-MATTERS’ nodes. In this edition, the Dutch node presents itself.
The Dutch node is located in the Brainport region in the south of the Netherlands and has 3 members, Brainport Industries, TNO and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). It builds upon already existing facilities and infrastructure (physical and digital).The main location is Brainport Industries Campus (BIC) in Eindhoven and complementary facilities and set-ups can be found at TU/e and various TNO locations.
The hub specializes in high mix, low volume, high complexity manufacturing industries and focuses on technologies such as:
- Human robot interaction
- Simulation of production automation
- Vision technology
Service in the spotlight: Operator of the Future
One of services the Dutch node offers is the Operator of the Future, an innovative robotic solution designed to automate repetitive loading and unloading tasks across a variety of machines in the manufacturing industry. This system combines a mobile robot, 3D vision technology, and advanced AI—leveraging Deep Learning and Machine Learning—to recognize when and how to perform tasks through observation, eliminating the need for direct signal exchange or complex reprogramming. Easily transferable between machines and adaptable to new products with minimal setup, this solution aims to enhance operational efficiency while reducing the dependency on human operators for monotonous work. Participating companies receive a comprehensive report evaluating the applicability of the solution to their specific needs, without incurring additional costs for integration with new machines. The underlying AI continues to evolve through real-world use cases, enabling broad applicability without significant re-engineering.
Boosting smart manufacturing: AI-MATTERS at Hannover Messe
At this year’s Hannover Messe, Werk150 // Reutlingen University and Brainport Industries are presenting a cutting-edge demonstrator in the context of AI-MATTERS. This cross-border initiative aims to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the practical application of artificial intelligence and the development of connected production ecosystems.
The showcased demonstrator highlights the power of collaboration and the impact of AI-driven solutions in modern manufacturing. Tailored for High-Mix/Low-Volume industries, it automates complex workflows and enables real-time insights, helping companies respond flexibly to market demands.
Key features include:
- German-Dutch collaboration combining academic research and industrial expertise
- AI-based efficiency through computer vision and digital twin technology
- Cross-border data standards supporting seamless supply chain integration
Brainport Industries brings in deep expertise from the Dutch manufacturing sector and its Smart Connected Supplier Network (SCSN), while Werk150 contributes advanced knowledge in AI and digital production environments.
Together, they are creating solutions that can be replicated and scaled across Europe to benefit the broader manufacturing landscape. You can still see the demonstrator in action until this Friday, April 4th, and connect with the teams behind this initiative at Hall 8, Stand D34.
AI-MATTERS at The European Robotics Forum 2025
From March 25 to March 27, the European Robotics Forum (ERF) took place in Stuttgart, capital of the German state Baden-Württemberg, where more than 1500 visitors gathered. The ERF aims to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and to ensure industrial leadership of manufacturers, providers and end-users of robotics technology-based systems and services. Among the relevant initiatives to boost AI and robotics in the industry, AI-MATTERS was prominently cited by State minister Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut in her Keynote on the third day and features in the state of Baden-Württemberg’s AI position paper publish the same day. On the second day, during the dedicated workshop of AI-MATTERS and other EU projects, several complex industrial use-cases illustrated the recent achievements using AI in the domain on circular economy. In this context, it is worth to mention the presentation of Santiago Grandal (AIMEN, Spanish node) which has shown how SME needs are addressed in the field of battery disassembly and recycling. The workshop has attracted over 100 participant.
AI-MATTERS At The Open Innovaton Challenge 2025 In Barcelona
Next Tuesday, April 8th, AI-MATTERS joins a strong network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) and tech leaders at the Open Innovaton Challenge 2025 in Barcelona, to explore opportunities that accelerate the testing and experimentation of AI-driven solutions across industries.
The event offers tailored meetings for in-depth discussions and analysis, identifying opportunities to advance the testing and experimentation of digital solutions within your organization. It also includes Tech Meetings, where participants can engage with top-tier experts from Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs) such as AI-MATTERS, and the AI Factories. These sessions aim to increase collaboration, knowledge exchange, and actionable strategies to support companies in their digital transformation journeys.
Consortium partners TECNALIA and Instituto Tecnológico de Aragón (ITA) will represent AI-MATTERS during the event and will exchange insights with key players in the European AI ecosystem.
Learn more about AI in manufacturing in your local language
Next to our central AI-Matters website, we have recently launched local websites for each of the 8 testing and experimentation facilities (TEFs) throughout Europe.
Each of these websites contains local information, such as news, events, open calls and local services. An overview of the AI-Matters websites:
Get in touch!
Are you interested in one of our services? Do you want to know more on how AI-MATTERS works and what we can do for you? Get in touch with us!
