A new laboratory born from the collaboration between the University and IMA

It is called "Digital and Mechatronic Research & Innovation for Automated Machinery and Systems" - DIGIMECH, and it serves as a meeting point between the academic and industrial worlds, aiming to promote innovation, research, and training in strategic and high-tech fields

As the result of a collaboration agreement between the University of Bologna and the IMA Group, a world leader in the design and production of automatic machines, the joint laboratory "Digital and Mechatronic Research & Innovation for Automated Machinery and Systems" officially opens its doors, offering numerous educational opportunities to university students.

The Laboratory aims to serve as a bridge between academia and industry, fostering innovation, research, and education in strategically significant and technologically advanced fields. It will also contribute to social and environmental sustainability through low-impact ecological projects and support for local industrial networks. It will encourage the exchange of experiences and expertise between the industrial and academic worlds for everyone involved in its initiatives.

DIGIMECH will focus on several key research areas: Automation: design and development of high-performance, low-environmental-impact machines and automated lines; Advanced Robotics: creation and implementation of robotic systems to enhance automation, flexibility, and precision in production lines; Mechatronics: integration of mechanical, electronic, and IT systems to build intelligent, high-performance machines; Artificial Intelligence and Big Data: use of AI and big data technologies to analyze and optimize manufacturing processes; Additive Manufacturing: development of new additive production techniques to enhance process efficiency and product quality; Predictive Maintenance: development of technologies for predictive machine maintenance to reduce downtime and improve productivity; Cybersecurity: protection of digital infrastructure and sensitive business data through advanced cybersecurity solutions.

Regarding development areas, the Laboratory will serve as a hub for creating prototypes and testing new technologies to assess their performance and reliability; for developing software and algorithms; and for implementing integrated solutions that combine hardware and software to produce highly automated machines and systems.

The Laboratory also aims to provide numerous training opportunities for students at the University of Bologna. It will serve as a space for conducting theses and internships, and as a host for PhD students, research fellows, and researchers working on strategically important scientific and industrial topics.

"We are thrilled to announce the creation of the Joint Laboratory with IMA Group. - said Professor Marco Carricato, University Representative for DIGIMECH - This initiative represents an extraordinary opportunity for the University of Bologna to strengthen its commitment to applied research and innovation. Collaborating with an industrial leader like IMA allows us to undertake top-level research projects - from robotics to artificial intelligence, from mechatronics to additive manufacturing - with a strong impact on the industrial and social fabric. Our goal is to create a dynamic and stimulating environment where academic research meets industrial application, offering students and researchers unique opportunities for training and growth. We are confident that this laboratory will significantly contribute to the technological and sustainable development of our country, and we can’t wait to embark on this new adventure".

"We are excited to announce the establishment of the Joint Laboratory with the University of Bologna. - added Eng. Dario Rea, Director of Research and Innovation at IMA Group - This agreement marks a significant step in our mission to promote innovation and technological excellence. Collaborating with Alma Mater allows us to join forces with one of Italy’s most prestigious academic institutions, enhancing our ability to develop cutting-edge solutions in robotics, mechatronics, big data, and more. We believe this lab will become a center of excellence where students, researchers, and professionals can work together on innovative projects, generating value for the entire community and supporting sustainable development. We look forward to seeing the results of this collaboration and sharing our progress with the world".